LIB RARY OF CO NGRESS. 
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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 




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(COPYRIGHTKD.) 



HOME TREATMENT 

FOR 

THE DISEASES 

OF 

DOMESTICATED ANIMALS 



A PRACTICAL WORK 



FOR 



FARMERS. TEAMSTERS, MERCHANTS, MECHANICS, 
STUDENTS AND PRACTITIONERS. 



A TREATISE ON THE DISEASES OF HORSES, CATTLE, SHEEP, HOGS 

AND DOGS. THEIR CAUSE^s, SY.MPrOMS, PREVENTION, 

AND CURE. ALSO THE LATEST AND MOST 

APPROVED METHODS OF DELIVERING 

THEIR YOUNG. 



FULLY ILLUSTRATED. 

/ ^Y ( MAR 2 1896) 

WAITER LANGTRY, ^Z Sl^ :--^!:> /va, 

GRADUATE OF THE ONTARIO VETERINARY COLLEGK, 
TORONTO, CANADA. 



f 



Copyrighted 

by 

Walter Langtry, V. S. 

FORT WAYNE, IND. 

1895. 



rsTOTioE:. 

For the diffusion of knowledge, all classes of litera- 
ture should be placed at a very nominal price, so as to 
be within the reach of every one, and more especially 
should this be the case with medical works, so that 
persons may not only inform themselves, but render 
valuable assistance in all cases of emergency, as well as 
treat successfully those minor cases where medical skill 
would not he called upon. All such books should be 
written very plainly in the English language, carefully 
avoiding all technical terras, so that any person may 
read and understand what he is doing. This I have 
earnestly endeavored to do, and have placed the price at 
an extremely low figure, being satisfied with a small 
profit and depending upon a large sale, to recompense 
me for my time and trouble. The price being so low 
and the profit so small, book stores cannot afford to 
handle them. They will, therefore, be sold only 
through agents. Any person desiring this work after 
the agent has called, can procure a copy l)y writing to 
my address : 

WALTER LANGTRY, V. S., 

Fort Wayne, Indiana, 

U. S. A. 



PREFACE. 



In presenting this work to the general public, it is 
not to be presumed that many will take tlie time to read 
the preface, for only about one in a thousand receive 
close attention. But if the reader will take the time to 
give it a careful perusal, it will doubly repay him for 
his trouble. It is not my intention nor desire, to make 
every purchaser of this work a thorough veterinarian, 
but to supply the busy and industrious American, who 
is the owner or lover of domesticated animals, with a 
concise and comprehensive treatise of the diseases of 
live stock, according to the modern or advanced system 
of treatment, discarding the old, vulgar and incompati- 
ble messes that have formerly been prescrilx'd, and the 
poor, dumb brute has been compelled, throngh force 
and ignorance, to endure that which it could not avoiil. 
The advanced and successful theory and practice among 
the lower animals, so closely resembles that of the 
human family, tliat what is considered humane treatment 
for the one, also applies to the other, and I most resi)ect- 
fully invite you to ask your family physician to cartd'ully 
peruse these pages, and obtain his opinion as to the 
correctness of treatment, and value to your library. It 
seems remarkal)ly strange, from tlie number of ])()()ks 
that ar(^ (hsily i>riiitfHl, that ilic wants of tlie industrious 



PREFACE. T 

farmer and owner of live stock, have been neglected in 
this line, and not supplied with a practical work, whereby 
he could not only avoid, but successfully and intelli- 
gently administer remedies and heal the wounds of his 
afflicted stock. The loss to the stock owner, amounts to 
an enormous sum annually, not only through diseases 
but during the period that they are producing their off- 
spring, for a want of knowledge in assisting them at 
that critical time ; and after an extensive practice in 
this line, for a period of eighteen years, and fully 
appreciating the desire of the stock-owner for a knowl- 
edge of this kind, I have endeavored to present it to 
them in this work as plainly as it is possible under the 
circumstances, for me to do in the English language, 
and if it will somewhat assist in mitigating some of the 
pain and misery, which the females are compelled to 
endure, the author will greatly appreciate the fact and 
will consider himself amply repaid for his time and 
trouble. 

Walter Langtry, V. S. 




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EXPLANATION OF THE DIFFERENT PARTS OF 
THE SKELETON. 



Zygomatic arch. 

Orbital cavity. 

Face bone. 

Incisor teeth. 

Molar teeth. 

Lower jaw. 

Atlas, 1st vertebrae of neck. 

Axis, 2d vertebris of neck. 

Cervical vertebras. 

Spinal process of back. 

Dorsal and lumbar vertebrae. 

Sacrum . 

Coccygeal or tail bones. 

Scapula, or shoulder blade. 

Acromion process. 

Hollow of shoulder blade. 

Superior tuberosity of the hu- 
merus. 

Humerus, or arm bone. 

Olecranon, or elbow bone. 

Cartilages of the ribs. 

Ribs. 

Haunch, the external and ante- 
rior angle of the illlvim. 

Os innominatum, or haunch bone. 



24. Great trochanter. 

25. Small trochanter. 

26. Femur, or thigh bone. 

27. Ischium, posterior angle of the 

illium. 

28. Radius, or fore-arm bone. 

29. Carpal, or knee bones. 

30. Trapezium. 

31. Metacarpal, or cannon bone. 

32. Os sufTraginis, or pastern bone. 

33. Sesamoid bone. 

34. Os coronae, or small pastern 

bone. 

35. Superior tuberosity of the tibia. 

36. Stifle joint. 

37. Tibia, or leg bone. 

38. Os calcis, or point of hock. 

39. Tarsus, or hock joint. 

40. Head of small metatarsal bone. 

41. Cannon, or metatarsal bone. 

42. Hoof, or foot bone. 

43. Fetlock joint. 

44. Patella. 

45. Fibula. 



INTRODUCTORY. 



Since an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of 
cure, it will be well first to consider sucli rules of treat- 
ment and of diet, as will tend to maintain good health 
in animals. The physical construction must be re- 
garded, and the fact impressed upon the mind that they 
do not consist entirely of hair and hide and a few exter- 
nal organs, simply because such alone are visible ; these 
but serve as an outer guard for a delicate, intricate and 
beautiful mechanism within. The wonderful work of 
digestion begins as soon as the food is taken into the 
mouth, for there it is ground by the teeth and mingled 
with the saliva ; through the proper channels it reaches 
the stomach, and then enters the intestines. When di- 
gested, the nutritive portions of the food are conveyed 
to the blood by means of absorbent vessels, whence oc- 
curs a process of purification, in which all waste parti- 
cles are cast aside and the rich, life-giving fluid is pro- 
pelled by the heart, through many blood-vessels, to the 
various portions of the system, to supply worn-out tis- 
sues. The body is not interspersed with blood-channels 
alone, but there is also a tracery of nerves extending to 
every extremity, commonly called the nervous system, 
and having two great centers; the spinal cord with 
which all lesser nerves connect, and the crowning splen- 
dor of animal existence, the brain, to which, in turn, the 
spinal cord is attached. There is also a structure of 
bones, termed the skeleton, to which cling in proper 
position, folds or layers of flesh, called muscles. The 



10 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

vast and marvelous mechanism of animal anatomy, is in 
itself a study, and since it can here be but briefly con- 
sidered, it will be better to proceed at once to the con- 
sideration of the principles of hygiene and sanitation, 
and of proper nursing; and medical treatment, than to 
dwell longer upon the art of dissection. We will there- 
fore first regard such rules of diet and management, as 
will be conducive to the maintenance of health. 

WATER. 

Dysentery, diarrh'-iea and many other diseases of 
stock, are very often occasioned by drinking water con- 
taining decomposing organic matter, such as may some- 
times be found in wells and ponds, situated near man- 
ure-heaps and cess-pools. It is important then, that 
water be free from impurities. When animals have- 
free access to water, they never drink to excess. Green 
food, owing to the juice it contains, lessens the quantity 
of water required. When fed upon dry hay and grain, 
the thirst is necessarily greater. 

Water from shallow wells, and river water, which is 
usually contaminated with sewage, is dangerous, while 
water from springs and deep wells, and upland surface 
water, is considered wholesome. Surface-water from 
land that has been cultivated, and stored rain-water, 
may be regarded with suspicion. Pure water can gen- 
erally be determined by its bluish tint, its clearness, 
and lack of taste or smell, but the presence of certain 
poisons, bacteria, etc., can be detected only by micro- 
scopic and chemical examination conducted by an ex- 
pert in this line. When at rest, the liorse requires 
water at least three times a day ; but when laboring, 
more frequently. The rule, under the latter circum- 
stance, should be to give in small quantities and often. 
When a horse is warm, he may be allowed a few swal- 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 11 

lows of water and should then immediately be given a 
pound or two of hay. He should then rest about an 
hour before feeding. The danger in giving water to a 
warm or over-heated animal, is due to the excessive 
amount it will take while in this condition. Horses 
should not be allowed ice cold water, and while hot 
water need not necessarily be added, it should be seen 
to that it does not verge upon the freezing point. 
While it is not a good idea to give water thus cold, yet 
serious trouble is seldom produced, if the horse has not 
been deprived for too long a time. The same rule will 
apply to cattle, although they are not so susceptible to 
unpleasant effects from this source as the horse, having 
four stomachs while the horse has but one. 

FOODS AND FEEDING. 

Cleanliness should be considered both in preparing 
and administering food. The method of preparation, 
found by experience to be the best, should be adhered to 
and regular times of feeding should be observed. Oats da 
not pass from the stomach so quickly as hay and straw 
and should therefore be given after either of the latter, 
as they cannot then be forced by the hay or straw, 
which is more rapidly digested, into the intestines, be- 
fore the stomach has performed its part in the work of' 
digestion. When the horse is hungry or exceedingly 
tired, this manner of feeding is particularly commend- 
able, since it requires more time to masticate hay, in- 
suring a proper mixture with it of the saliva, and it 
cannot be bolted as are oats or other grains. ' Water 
should not be given after feeding, a^ it washes the food 
from the stomach before it is prepared to enter diges- 
tion in the intestines. Before feeding then, is the 
proper time to give water. The selection of food should 
depend upon the nature of the labor required of the 



12 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

horse. Severe or hurried work cannot be expected of 
an animal with a full stomach. When labor of this na- 
ture is required, it is best that food be allowed in small 
quantity, about two hours before going to work. Even 
slow-working animals should not be gorged with bulky 
food lacking in nourishing properties, immediately be- 
fore being put to labor. Grains should never be fed 
immediately after a hard day's work, as digestive dis- 
orders are apt to arise. Hay should first be given, with 
grains following. The same rule should be observed in 
feeding an animal that has been for any reason, de- 
prived of food for sometime ; also in this case, a lesa 
quantity should be given than would be consumed. If 
too much food is allowed, colic is apt to follow. For 
horses engaged mostly in slow work, chopped or cut 
hay, fed with crushed oats, ground corn, etc., is desira- 
ble. Diet should not be changed suddenly, as this is 
dangerous, but the desired change should be accom- 
plished very gradually. Neither should there be an 
immediate increase in the quantity of food, if this is 
desired, but the amount required should be reached by 
degrees. The quantity of food must be governed by the 
amount of labor to be performed. If the work is de- 
creased or there is an entire cessation from toil for a 
few days, the food should be lessened. If the horse is 
to stand for sometime, the food should be of a laxative 
nature. Musty or moldy foods should not be fed, since 
from these frequently arise various diseases, such as 
bronchitis, lung trouble and heaves. Kidney disorders 
are apt to arise from the consuming of musty hay. 

HAY. 

Timothy, about a year old, fresh, clean, and of a 
greenisli color, and possessing a pleasant odor, is the 
best hay for horses. If kept too long, however, it be- 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 13 

comes deficient in nourishment, hard, dry and more or 
less difficult of digestion. New hay also, is hard to di- 
gest, sometimes producing purging, and irritation of the 
skin. It should be mixed with old hay, if given at all. 
Second crop hay is not good for horses, but is consid- 
ered by some persons, as good food for milch cows ; it 
being claimed that it has a tendency to increase the flow 
of milk. Ten to twelve pounds of hay a day, is suffi- 
cient for the average horse, when grain is also fed. 
Horses engaged in light w^ork, should not be kept en- 
tirely upon hay, as they will fall off in flesh and become 
pot-bellied. This also applies to colts ; unless the latter 
are allowed some grain in addition to their hay, they are 
apt to grow into lean, awkward creatures, never making 
as good horses, as others fed upon both kinds of food. 

STRAWS. 

When straws are used as an article of food, they 
should be chopped and mixed Avith crushed or ground 
grains, and hay. The straws mostly used, are those of 
rye, oats and wheat. Oats straw contains the greatest 
amount of nourishment and is the most easily digested. 
Bean and pea straws are sometimes fed to horses, and 
of these two, the pea straw appears to be preferable. 

CHAFF. 

When oat chaff is mixed with cut hay or corn fod- 
der, it may be used as an article of food, but only in 
small quantities, as abundant feeding frequently pro- 
duces a troublesome and sometimes fatal diarrhoea, in 
both horses and cattle. 

Rye and wheat chaff should not be used. More or 
less trouble is occasioned by the beards becoming lodged 
in the mouth and throat, while in the bowels and stom- 
ach, they often form the basis of soft concretions. 



14 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

GRAINS. 

Oats are the most easily digested, and contain the 
best proportion of nourishment. They are therefore 
preferable to all other grains. The best oats are a year 
old, clean, hard, short and plump. New oats are indi- 
gestible. Kiln-dried oats, though originally good, are 
not desirable, since this method of drying, injures them. 
Sprouted or fermented oats should never be fed, as they 
are injurious. For old horses and those having poor 
teeth, oats are best when crushed ; in most instances, 
however, they may be fed whole. Crushed oats are also 
best for horses addicted to the habit of bolting their 
food, and in such cases, it is well to scatter the grain 
before them, or spread it in a thin layer. With the 
amount of hay already mentioned, the average horse 
will require about twelve quarts of oats daily. Moldy 
oats should not be fed, as they will give rise to very 
serious disturbances, often terminating fatally. 

WHEAT AND RYE. 

These grains should be given as food, in small quan- 
tities only, and should be crushed and mixed with hay 
or other grains. Digestive disorders, founder and simi- 
lar troubles are produced in horses, if these grains are 
given alone, in any considerable quantities. When 
used as an article of diet, they should invariably be 
ground or crushed, and the amount given, should not be 
more than one-fourth of the quantity of grain allowed. 

BRAN. 

Wheat-bran is mostly used, when bran is desired. 
Various estimates are placed upon its value. It is best 
fed with other grain ; it bestows freedom of action upon 
the bowels, and sour bran, therefore, should not be 
given, as it is productive of stomach and intestinal 
disorders. 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 15 

MAIZE-CORN. 

This grain should not be used exclusively as food for 
young horses, as it is lacking in salts. It may be fed 
either whole or ground. For horses affected with 
lampas, it is generally given upon the cob, but if it is 
old corn and it is desired to give it in this manner, it 
should be soaked in clean water for some ten to twelve 
hours. Corn is better given in the ground form, from 
one to two quarts at a feeding, mixed with wheat-bran 
or crushed oats. A full feed of corn given to a horse 
unaccustomed to its use, is likely to give rise to acute 
indigestion. For this reason, small quantities should 
be given at first, and gradually increased until the de- 
sired amount is reached. 

LINSEED. 

When it is desired to keep the bowels open and im- 
prove the condition of the skin, ground linseed may oc- 
casionally be given with other articles of diet. When 
the digestive organs are inflamed or irritable, tea made 
of linseed is very beneficial. 

POTATOES — C ARROTS — BEETS. 

Potatoes used as food for horses or cattle, are best 
steamed or boiled. If given in considerable quantities in 
the raw state, they are apt to produce indigestion. 
Like most other roots, they possess a small proportion of 
laxative properties. Beets are not used often as food 
for horses, and should not be used too liberally as food 
for cattle. Carrots, when fed in small quantities, are 
very beneficial and particularly so in sickness, as they 
improve the appetite, and to a slight extent, increase 
the action of the kidneys and bowels. They also con- 
tain alterative properties and when used as an article of 
diet the coat becomes glossv and smooth. 



16 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

GRASS. 

If at all possible, every horse sliould receive a sum- 
mer vacation, which he may spend in some good pas- 
turage. This not only affords him his natural food, but 
gives him a brief season for rest and recuperation. 
Grass is indispensible to growing stock. It is not suffi- 
cient in itsef, as food for an animal engaged in labor, 
as purging results, and horses soon tire in travel or 
work. They also perspire easily. It should at first be 
given in small quantities to horses accustomed to grain 
and hay, but the best idea, is to let the animal crop it 
for itself. Chronic disorders sometimes disappear en- 
tirely, when the animal is uj^on grass ; it also lias a ten- 
dency to lessen fever, and wounds heal with greater 
rapidity than when upon grain. Last but not least, is 
the fact that an occasional change of diet, goes far to- 
ward maintaining a good condition in animals. It is not 
a good idea to continue the same routine of feeding, for 
this becomes tiresome, as it would with ourselves, were 
we subjected to a certain rule of diet. An occasional 
change is appreciated by animals, and consequently fol- 
lowed with good results. 

STABLING. 

stalls should be large and roomy. Box stalls are best, 
for these allow such complete freedom from halter or 
etrap, that the animal may choose any position desired, 
for comfort and rest. It is bad policy to economize in 
stable-room, by building narrow, uncomfortable stalls. 
There should at least be room for the animal to stretch 
out its limbs, so that it need not lie in a cramped posi- 
tion. A ground floor is the best, but upon floors of 
any kind, should be placed a good bedding. For 
this, clean straw is preferable. Ventilation should 
not be disregarded, but in order to secure this, it 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 17 

is not necessary tliat a flood of cold or damp, chilly 
air be allowed to rush upon the animal. In this, as in 
other matters, judgment must be used. Above all 
things, cleanliness must be observed, and there should 
be plenty of light. Food should be placed so that it can 
be reached without discomfort. Screen or netting prop- 
erly arranged, affords good protection from flies. Floors 
of any kind should be level; if a board floor is used, 
there should be some means of drainage. 

HARNESS. 

This should be adjusted to the form of the horse, in 
as comfortable a manner as possible. Rubbing should 
be guarded against, particularly the friction of the col- 
lar upon the shoulders. The cruelty of tight check- 
reining cannot be too severely condemned. It not only 
cramps the horse into a painful position, but is senseless 
in the extreme, being a detriment to the natural beauty 
of the animal and a hindrance to him while at work. 

JIUTILATIONS. 

The inhuman fashion of docking has happily almost 
entirely disappeared, as has also the slashing of ears. 
The mane, tail and fore-top, appear well if evenly 
trimmed, but there is no beauty in a stubby tail, a 
closely hacked mane and a raring fore-top ; the latter 
should be either short enough to escape the eyes, or be 
carefully tucked away beneath some portion of the 
head gear. As to the recent style of clipping, it cer- 
tainly does not seem reasonable to subject the horse to 
the chilling air of winter, deprived of his natural pro- 
tection. The animal suffers as much as would his mas- 
ter, were he compelled to remain out any length of 
time, without a coat. 

It may do well enough in mid-summer, or as soon as 
the weather becomes settled and warm. Nature, how- 



18 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

ever, has made ample provision, by granting a shedding 
or thinning of the hair, at the proper time. But with 
all due care and consideration, animals will sicken 
sometimes from causes over which we have no control ; 
it is the way of all flesh, and when ailments occur, we 
must seek to administer in the best and most practical 
manner, the most efficient remedies. 

BATHS. 

For the cure of disease and likewise for the pres- 
ervation of liealth, baths are important. When falling 
in temperature below 70° Fahrenheit they may be 
termed cold baths: such, when used with discretion, ex 
ert tonic, stimulating or bracing effects. They contract 
the blood-vessels lying close to the skin and increase the 
excretion of waste particles. Cold baths should not be 
too long continued, especially when applied to young or 
weakly animals, as undesirable and even injurious re- 
sults may ensue. A sea bath is better than fresli water 
at rest. By drying thorouglily, by hnnd-rubbing or 
blanketing, reaction is encouraged, and it may some- 
times be well to give stimulants. If a lower temj^era- 
ture than 70° Fahrenheit is required, the animal may be 
placed in a bath of that degree of temperature which 
may then be lowered to 60° or lower; or may at once be 
placed in a batli, ranging from 60° to 50°, or have cold 
water dashed over it. Ten or fifteen minutes will suf- 
fice, in such cases, and the treatment may be given 
twice in a day. By this method, high fever may be re- 
duced from 1° to 4°. 

TEPin BATHS. 

From 65° to 85° Fahr. is the proper range for a 
tepid bath. They are beneficial to heated and tired 
animals, producing' a sense of comfort. Perspira- 
tion is encouraged, tlie skin is cleansed, and they also, 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 19 

more or less, allay thirst ; likewise they are beneficial in 
removing stiffness, resulting sometimes after a hard 
day's labor. 

WARM BATHS. 

From 85° to 97° Fahr. is the proper range of tem- 
perature for baths of this kind. They are servicable in 
relieving chronic skin diseases and softening the skin. 
By their application, blood-vessels under-lying the skin 
are expanded and perspiration is promoted. 

HOT BATHS. 

The temperature in baths of this kind ranges upward 
from 97° Fahr. As high as 110° may be reached if ijti- 
creased by degrees. By their use, the temperature of 
the body is increased, the capillaries or blood-vessels of 
the skin are expanded, the perspiration and pulse are 
accelerated, and excretion of waste matter is hastened. 
They are soothing to over-taxed muscles, useful in re- 
lieving colic and cramps, check such disorders as rheu- 
matism, catarrh and weed attacks, and are of benefit in 
chronic affections of the skin. 

MEDICATION. 

Baths may be medicated. To stimulate the skin, 
salt or mustard may be added. Drugs of various kinds 
are used for the destruction of parasites of the skin and 
also for chronic skin diseases. In the latter instance, 
alkaline carbonates or potassium sulpheret; for the de- 
struction of parasites, carbolic acid, tobacco juice, solu- 
tion of arsenious acid may be used. 

Not many stables, however, afford the convenient 
and elegant appliances facilitating the administering of 
baths. The next best method, and the one usually em- 
ployed, is sponging with tepid, cold or hot water, as the 
case may require. Satisfactory results are thus ob- 
tained. In treatment of fever, the water should not at 



20 HOME treatm?:nt for 

first, be of temperature lower than 85° or 80° Fahr. 
The sponging process should not last longer than three 
or four minutes ; the animal should then be wiped dry 
and at once covered with a blanket. The sponging may 
be repeated within three or four hours, if necessary, 
especially should the temperature again have risen. 
After the first or second sponging, the temperature of 
the water may be lowered to 05° or 60° Fahr. Some- 
times a little acid added to th3 bath is of benefit, and 
concurrent with this treatment, stimulants or anti- 
septic salines may be prescribed. 

FOMENTATIONS. 

In order to be of benefit, fomentations should be 
continued for several hours. Usually, water alone is 
used, but laudanum, vinegar, saline, and other reme- 
dies, suitable to the ailment, are sometimes added. 
Fomentations are usually hot, though cold applications 
are sometimes used. They are generally applied to 
bruises, inflammations, such as in kidney disease, or in 
diseases of the lungs as pneumonia and pleurisy ; to 
sprains, wounds, or inflamed eyes. The temperature 
must of course be regulated to the nature of the disor- 
der, and the portion of the body where it is situated. 
When applied to the eye, the degree of heat should not 
go beyond 100° Fahr. For bruises, external inflamma- 
tions and disturbances of similar character, the water 
may be as hot as can be borne by the hand, and for 
pleurisy and other internal inflammatory affections, 
horse-cloths or pieces of flannel should be soaked with 
boiling water, partially dried, and spread over the sur- 
face around and above the affected parts and covered 
with a piece of rubber or any other material that will 
prevent evaporation. For the lesser ailments, a sponge 
or rag, a flannel rag is preferable, may be used, with 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 



21 



some covering to retain the moisture. It is not advisa- 
ble to use a sponge where there is any putrid or foul 
discharge, as it is apt to harbor disease germs, whereas, 
if a rag is used, it is usually burned, or destroyed in 
some other manner. Probably the most speedy and 
convenient method, is to wring a sheep-skin out of the 
water, and place the wooly side to the diseased part. 




Fomentwff a Bruise. 

The temperature of the application should be kept as 
even as possible, and when the fomenting operation is 
completed, the affected portions should be nicely dried 
and wrapped, so as to prevent chilling. Mustard is 
sometimes applied to assist in sustaining the tempera- 
ture, though this is apt to be somewhat painful to open, 
sensitive wounds. For this purpose, also alcohol or a mild 
stimulating liniment may be used. Guard against irri- 
tation, in the treatment of a raw sore or an open wound, 
as this will have a tendency to delay the healing process. 



22 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

POULTICES. 

Boiled linseed-meal, oat meal, bran, bread, turnips, 
and dried hops where a light poultice is desired, are 
some of the substances used for this manner of moist 
application. Poultices may be either hot or cold ; cold 
poultice's are prepared in the same manner as are hot 
applications, and then allowed to cool. Hot poultices, 
however, are mostly used. They may be laid directly 
upon the wound, or affected part, or a very thin cover- 
ing as a piece of old, thin muslin, may first be spread 
upon the part to be treated. This tends to prevent 
sticking, and for this purpose also, a light coating of 
glycerine solution or vaseline, may be used. They 
sliould be removed every hour or two, and fresh ones 
supplied, and this changing should be accomplished 
with rapidity, so as to prevent chilling. Poultices en- 
courage the excretion of pus and therefore should not 
be applied to fresh or to dry wounds where there is no 
suppuration. They should not be continued for too long 
a time, as the result will be a too great relaxing or soft- 
ening of the affected parts. When the operation is 
(•ompleted, care should be taken to prevent chilling ])y 
enveloping in flannel or some other suitable material. 
When heat is desired without moisture, hot salt or sand 
in bags, may be applied. Poultices are sometimes 
medicated. Opiates may be added to produce a sooth- 
ing effect; a sprinkling of turpentine or mustard will 
encourage stimulation, and an antiseptic tendency is 
produced by adding carbolic acid, yeast, charcoal or 
chlorinated soda. 

POWDERS. 

When not of too large a size powders may be dropped 
upon the tongue of the patient. The most satisfactory 
manner of administering, is to mix with some soft form of 
food, provided the flavor is not so disagreeable that the 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 28 

animal will refuse it. Most all medicines may be ob- 
tained in the form of powders, and while their action is 
not quite as qu'ck as in liquid form, they are just as ef- 
fective, and if kept in close stoppered bottles, will retain 
and impart their active principles for a great length of 
time. 

PLASTERS. 

In veterinary practice, plasters are not as a rile, a 
convenient method of treatment, owing to the fact that 
an animal usually shows a disposition to bite or rub 
them of!', and thus there is danger of additional injury 
to the portion already affected. They are useful in af- 
fording protection and retarding evaporation, increas- 
ing activity of the glands, and when applied in a thick 
form, tend to hinder motion of the diseased parts. 
When they are to remain for some length of time, the 
ingredients melted to softness, may be poured directly 
upon the skin, over-spread with ravelled lint or tow and 
over the whole, a linen or leather bandage should be 
placed. Applications of this kind, are known as 
charges. For stimulation, mustard or cantharides may 
be added to tlie other ingredients, but if a soothing ef- 
fect is desired, add opium or belladonna. 

LOTIONS. 

Fluid preparations intended for the bathing of ex- 
ternal parts, are termed lotions. A^arious drugs are 
used, with writer or other fluids or mixtures of fluids, as 
solvents. They are of benefit in swellings, sore joints 
and muscles, inflamed eyes, skin diseases and other ex- 
ternal disorders. They may also be applied for stimu- 
lating effects upon internal organs. Besides pouring, or 
rubbing as in the application of liniments, lotions may 
be applied by means of linen saturated with the prep- 
aration and laid upon the part to be treated. 



24 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

OINTMENTS. 

Lard, butter, or other fatty matters, form the basis 
of ointments. Vaseline is very desirable since it does 
not become rancid and in itself possesses soothing and 
healing qualities. To the oily consistence employed, 
such drugs are to be added as are to be used in treating 
the ailment, and after being well mixed, the ointment 
is, as a general thing, ready for use. This manner of 
treatment is desirable for healing sores, skin disorders, 
and since the ingredients are capable of being absorbed 
by the skin, for introducing medicines, in certain in- 
stances, into the system. In order to facilitate absorp- 
tion, lanolin or oleic acid is in the proper instances, 
used as a basis. When wax or resin is employed, it 
must be slowly melted and the other ingredients added, 
and the mass should be stirred until well mixed and un- 
til it is of the proper consistence. 

VAPORS. 

For disinfecting the air-passages, destroying para- 
sites therein, for soothing or stimulating, inhalations 
are sometimes used with good eifect. This manner of 
treatment is beneficial in many ailments of the throat 
and breathing organs, as catarrh, sore throat, bronchial 
congestion. For these latter attections, vapor produced 
from pure water alone, or to which has been added a lit- 
tle chloroform, laudanum, belladonna, or whatever else 
is designated for the ailment, often affords prompt re- 
lief. A hot bran-mash contained in a good sized nose 
bag, is a convenient method of producing steam, as also 
a bucket containing hot w^ater, placed beneath the nos- 
trils, the bucket and head of the animal being covered 
with sacking, or the covering may be omitted and a hot 
iron plunged into the water at suitable intervals. For 
disinfection, and for irritability of the organs of breath- 



DOMEv«lTICATED ANIMALS. 



25 



iiig, fumes and gases from various drugs are sometimes 
employed, but these will be treated upon elsewhere. 
The practice of smoking with old shoes, rubber, wool, 
etc., is to be severely condemned as injurious, inhuman, 




Nose Bag for Sleamivg. 

and utterly senseless. To a human being suffering with 
throat or lung affections, this would be not only obnox- 
ious, but very prolific of injurious effects. It is none 
the less so to the fettered animal, unable to speak or 
offer any other sign of protest, and it must therefore 
stand patiently and endure, or if this becomes impossi- 
ble, succumb to the torment. 

INJECTIONS. 

Liquid introduced into the rectum, whether pure 
water alone, or water with the addition of some me- 
dicinal element, or whether of some other fluid form, 
constitutes an injection. The object in administering, 
is to relax the bowels, for which it is safe and effectual, 
to maintain and hasten the action of purgatives, to 
cleanse of worms which may infest the posterior portion 
of the canal, and may be used with soothing as well as 
stimulating effect, influencing both adjacent and remote 



26 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

organs. This is also a means of introducing medicines 
into the system, when there is ditiiculty in swallowing, 
as in sore throat, lock-jaw, or other affections producing 
a similar condition ; they are not so rapidly absorbed by 
this method however, as when administered in the nat- 
ural manner. This treatment is effective in constipa- 
tion or in obstinate torpidity. In the horse, the har- 
dened fecal matter may first be removed by the hand 
or spatula and the injection may then follow. From 
one and a half to five gallons of tepid water, may be in- 
jected into the rectum of a draught-horse, while a pint 
is suUicient for a dog weighing forty pounds. In this as 
in all else, judgment must be used, and the amount 
regulated to the nature of the disorder and species of 
animal. Two or three pints is a sufficiency for the ox 
or horse, when intended for retention and absorption; 
three or four times this amount is required wlien evacua- 
tion is desired, and larger quantities in obstinate cases. 
By the addition to tepid water, of soap — castile is 
preferable, or raw linseed oil, the effect is increased. 
An injection composed of four ounces of turpentine and 
a quart of raw linseed oil, is effective in removing 
worms. The aj)paratus for giving injections are of vari- 
ous kinds, of which we will designate the barrel syringe 
and the ball syringe as the most common. There is also 
Prof. Gamgee's funnel ; a sort of rectangular arrange- 
ment, into the top or cup of which the liciuid may be 
poured, and it will then follow the tube and enter the 
rectum. This method would no doubt be the most 
agreeable to the animal, as it does not necessitate the 
unpleasant pumj)ing or forcing usually required to oper- 
ate a syringe. The portion of the instrument intro- 
duced into the rectum, should be well greased with oil 
or lard and entered in a slow and careful manner, to 
prevent any unnecessary irritation to the parts. 



DOMESTICATED AKIMALS. 



27 



SUPPOSITORIES. 

By combining with soap, cocoa-butter or lard, and 
wielding into a round form resembling a ball or cylin- 
der, certain drugs may be introduced into the rectum, 
vagina and uterus. A suppository of soap placed in tlie 
anus, encourages acton of the bowels in young foals and 
calves. 

BOLUSES. 

Some medicines are conveniently administered in tlie 
form of a bolus or pill. The remedy to be given, is 
mixed with a mass of sufficient consistency to allow 
molding into a round form ; the cylindrical shape is bet- 
ter than the absolutely round ball, and it may measure 




Giving (t Pill 
from a half to three-fourths of an inch in thickness, and 
two inches in length. There are a number of articles 
with which the medicine may be mixed and wielded 
into the proper form, but lard or linseed meal can prob- 
ably be the most readily obtained. In both mixing and 
administering, cleanliness should be observed and the 
balls must not be allowed to harden, as in this condi- 
tion, they sometimes pass away from the animal with- 
out having been changed and absorbed. Wrapping in 
oiled paper will preserve moisture, or fresii (jnes may be 
made as required. 



28 HOME TREATJIENT FOR 

The bolus is usually given with the fingers, and 
the operation is simple. The ball is held by one end 
between the thumb (which supports it below) and the 
fingers of the right hand, which is drawn together and 
rounded as much as possible. The tongue of the patient 
is gently drawn out a little way by the left hand, and 
the ball passed rapidly along the roof of the mouth, and 
dropped on the back of the tongue. The hand must be 
quickly withdrawn and the hold upon the tongue at once 
released. Close the mouth, and slightly elevate the 
head which may be released as soon as the ball is swal- 
lowed. The operation should be performed in as rapid 
and careful a manner as possible and with a firm, steady 
hand, for a nervous doctor usually makes a nervous pa- 
tient; neither should the animal be struck or abused. 
When, on account of viciousness, the ball cannot readily 
be administered by the hand, it is best to use a balling 
iron. This device is also conveniently used when the 
mouth is narrow, or when by reason of some affection, 
it cannot be sufiiciently opened. 

DRENCHES. 

Fluid preparations given in a single good-sized dose, 
are termed drenches. When the flavor is not disagree- 
able, the animal may usually be induced to drink it 
mixed with its drinking water or with gruel. From two 
to six ounces, according to the size of the animal, is an 
average amount for dogs ; one or two pints for horses, 
six to eight ounces for sheep, and for an ox one to two 
quarts. The mixture should be well shaken, so that the 
ingredients will be thoroughly mixed. In administering 
to a horse, the head should be raised to a moderate 
height, and the tongue secured so as to prevent the 
throwing out of the liquid, yet allowing sufficient action 
of jaws, lips, tongue and cheeks to permit swallowing. 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 29 

The tongue should not be drawn outward in a forcible 
manner, as in this position, it cannot assist in forcing 
back the fluid, and furthermore encourages the danger 
of choking. To secure the head by means of ropes and 
pulleys fastened above, is an objectionable method ; a 
better way is to hold the head in position by means of a 
twitch, the noose of which is placed over the upper jaw 
within the incisor teeth, and an assistant, standing on 
the left side of the animal may raise and sustain the 
head by means of a stick attached to the noose, or the 
noose may be slipped between the prongs of a stable 
fork. The best method however, is to dispense with all 
fetters and entanglements, and use the hands alone, as 
first described. This requires but one person, and is 
quickly and easily accomplished, at the same time al- 
lowing the most comfort and freedom to the animal. 
Drenching through the nostrils is not only unnatural, 
but is attended with danger of death, as the fluid may 
enter either the channel to the lungs or the passage to 
the stomach, or both. The nostrils are to admit air, not 
food and drink or other matters foreign to them. The 
mouth has this ofiice to perform. If, in administering 
a drench to an animal, it is seized with a fit of coughing, 
release it at once, as there is danger of choking. In 
administering to cattle, grasp firmly but not roughly by 
the nostrils, with the thumb and two fingers, in such a 
manner that there will be no interference with the 
breathing, and raise the head to a moderate height. 
The drench may then be given with the other hand. 
Aid is rendered in some instances, if an assistant grasps 
the horns and steadies the head. Large dogs may be 
backed into a corner, so that they cannot pull away, and 
the head held between the knees. Glass bottles are 
usually used to contain the fluid, but if a properly 
shaped tin vessel can be obtained, it will be all the bet- 



30 IIOMK T}IEAT>1EXT FOR 

ter, as there is danger that the glass bottle may h<^ 
broken, the contents spilled, and the mouth of the ani- 
mal or the hands of tlie operator, cut by the fragments. 
The drencliing horn is also sometimes used. In all ani- 
mals the nostrils should be left unobstructed to such an 
extent as to not interfere with breathing; choking 
should be guarded against, and the drench should be 
poured somewhat slowly. 

DISINFECTION. 

For cleansing a drain, pour into it a bucket of water 
in which has been dissolved a handful of copperas. 
When it is desired to eradicate disease germs, smoke the 
shed or stable with sulphur ; if to this is added wood 
tar, the activity will l)e greatly increased. Place a heap 
of live coals in an iron kettle or other suitable vessel, 
and lay the sulphur or tar and sulphur upon them. 
The gases will at once begin to generate. For thorough 
disinfection, it is best to remove all living creatures, 
close the building tightly, arrange the vessel so that 
there is no danger of fire, and leave matters so, for an 
hour or two. The smoke will thus penetrate every 
crevice. A little of this gas inhaled by animals may be 
beneficial, but the suffocating power of sulphur fumes 
is well known, and it is therefore not to be trifled with. 
By all means, remove the animals if distress is indi- 
cated by coughing. Carbolic acid applied to the door- 
lintels and walls, forms a good disinfectant. Cloths 
wet with a weak solution of it and hung up, are an at- 
traction and a destruction to disease germs floating 
about in the atmosphere. This acid is also disagreeable 
to flies. 

BLISTERINO. 

Before applying a blister, shave the hair from the 
part, wash and dry well; then witli smart friction con- 
tinued for a few minutes, apply the blistering prepara- 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 81 

tion. If the operation is properly accomplished, and 
the application is afterwards carefully watched, the 
blister should leave no perjnanent scar or blemish. If it 
proves to be too severe, remove it and wash the part 
gently and apply olive oil or lard freely. Tie the horse 
in such a manner that he cannot gnaw at the blister, 
and do not remove the loose skin raised by it; let this 
scale off naturally. This treatment is sometimes used 
to hasten the opening; of an abscess, or to reduce an en- 
larged gland. When sufficient action has been aroused, 
further irritation may be discouraged by washing care- 
fully and applying olive oil or lard. 

FIRINa. 

In many cases of chronic lameness and in obstinate 
bone diseases, firing is of great benefit. For this pur- 
pose, Williams' instrument for pyropuncture is to be 
recommended, as it makes a deep impression and leaves 
scarcely any scar. The iron should be red hot, and ap- 
j)lied with enough force to pierce the skin and enter the 
diseased part. Before the procedure begins, the hair 
should be shaved from the part to be treated, and the 
animal securely fastened. On the day following the 
operation, neats' foot or some other bland oil may be 
api^lied, to act upon the swelling, and this may hence 
forward be used daily, until the swelling is reduced. 
The animal should not be put to labor too soon, as the 
disease may return if this is done. A rest of several 
months is advisable. 

SLINGS. 

Unless suffering from diseased feet, it is ]>?st to let 
the liorse sustain himself, but when to all appearance?, 
exhaustion is so great that this is no longer possible, it 
is well, in some instances, to prepare a sling for support 
in maintaining an upright position. To accomplish 



C2 HOME TREAT5IENT FOR 

this, a block and tackle may be securely fastened to a 
beam over-head and attached to the canvas or other 
stout material employed, and which has been wrapped 
two or three times at each end, around stout rollers, at 
least two inches thick, and securely nailed. If instead, 
a frame is to be used, set four posts, a little over three 
feet apart one way and five feet the other. On either 
side and on a line with the middle of the body, place a 
strong horizontal bar. Lead the horse between the 
posts, place a bar in front at such a height that it will 
cross the lower part of the neck, and another between 
the hind posts, on a line with the stifle. Wind your 
material around one of the side bars, and nail it on the 
outside, then pass it beneath the body to the bar oppo- 
site, and secure in the same manner. Do not let the 
horse sink down into the sling until it is well secured. 
The cloth may be strengthened by small ropes, and it 
should be of such a width as to begin behind the fore- 
legs, and clear the sheath in the male. 

BLEEDING. 

By diminishing the quantity of blood in circulation, 
bleeding lessens the action of the lungs and heart. If 
this manner of treatment is resorted to, it should be in 
the first stages of the disease, before there is much ex- 
havistion. It is not a safe remedy and should be avoided 
if possible. In some instances, however, it is the only 
chance for life. In horses, the jugular vein is generally 
selected when blood-letting is desired. A fleam is 
preferable to a lancet, for this purpose, since with this 
instrument, there is certainty of tapping the vein to a 
proper extent. From a previously strong, healthy horse, 
one bleeding of from five to seven quarts, is sufiicient. 
The quantity extracted, must be regulated to the size of 
the animal and the nature of the ailment. A rusty or 
unclean instrument should not be used, as it is likely to 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 83 

produce inflammation. The horse should be blind- 
folded ; pressure should be brought upon the vein with 
the finger, until it grows tense, or to accomplish this, a 
stout string may be tied about the neck with pressure 
enough to bring the veins into prominence, but there 
should be no dragging upon the skin. The incision 
must be made above the point of pressure ; the fleam 
should be laid lengtliwise along the center of the vein, 
and should be given a quick, heavy blow, whereupon 




Raising the. Vtin. 

the blood will spurt out. The pressure must be con- 
tinued until a sufficient amount is drawn, when the 
string or finger, whichever has been employed, should be 
removed, and the flow will cease. During the operation 
and while the flow continues, the head should be ele- 
vated to a moderate heiglit. When bleeding has ceased, 
a common pin is run through the margins of the wound 
and wrapped with thread crossed back and forth over 
the ends of the pin in the form of a figure eight. 
Care must be exercised in the pinning operation, so that 
there will be no dragging upon the skin, and no undue 
tightening of the thread ligature, and the vein must not 



34 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

be included. Usually in three days, the pin may be re- 
moved. It should first be twisted about to loosen adhe- 
sions, should there be any, and then withdrawn with 
one hand, while the other holds the akin in place below 
it, so that it will not be dragged back. 

The ox and sheep are also generally bled from the 




Bleeding. 
jugular, though sometimes in the sheep, the eye or 
cheek vein is tapped. In the pig, the ear may be turned 
back and the veins pressed upon at the base, and brought 
into prominence, when the incision can be made ; or a 
cord may be tied around the foreleg above the knee, 
when the brachial vein, on the inside of the leg will be 
seen, and can be lanced. The cut should be made 
about an inch above the knee. 

SHOEING. 

While the art of shoeing belongs to another profes- 
sion, which is closely allied to that of the veterinary 
surgeon, it may not be out of place here to make a few 
remarks on the various modes and manners in wliich 
the foot of the horse is treated by many blacksmiths, 
for want of a know^ledge of one of the most intricate 
parts of the horse's anatomy. Far from it, is it my in- 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. Bo 

teution to do any injustice to the knights of the anvil, yet 
there are so many who undertake to practice this trade 
or profession, that have never given the parts suf- 
ficient study, or in whom there is not enough mechanical 
ingenuity, to properly place the shoe, and drive the 
nails in their proper position, after the foot has been 
levelled and prepared for its reception. The somewhat 
vveeping assertion has frequently been made, that tlie 
history of every horse, has been a record of human en- 
deavor to destroy its usefulness, yet this assertion is not 
made without some foundation for its support, for where 
is the individual who questions the statement, ""No 
foot, no horse;'- and yet there is no portion of this ani- 
mal's anatomy, wherein he has been compelled to suffer 
^o many ills, the cause of which, in the vast majority of 
instances, are traceable either directly or indirectly, to 
the manner in which the foot has been prepared and the 
ill-fitting shoe it has been compelled to wear. Unfortu- 
nate indeed, has it been for that noble animal, that we 
have been obliged to invent some device for the artifi- 
cial protection of the foot, as the necessary work that is 
imposed upon it from day to day, causes a greater waste 
of horn than nature can replace during the intervals of 
rest it is allowed. The ordinary iron shoe, has so far, 
proven the best protection, and even this, when applied 
under the direction of, or by a skillful mechanic, means 
a certain amount of injury to the tissues of the foot. 
Every nail driven, means so much injury, and the larger 
the nail, the greater the injurious effects. There is 
however, one class of horses in this country, which, 
from the nature of the work they have to perform, and 
the condition of the ground they have to travel over, 
renders it unnecessary to furnish artificial protection for 
their feet, except under extraordinary circumstances. 
These are our agricultural horses; and when one of 



36 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

them, from the peculiar shape or condition of the feet, 
must receive attention, take it to a skillful mechanic, 
no matter how great the distance. It is strange, yet 
nevertheless true, that the average horse shoer has a 
mania for cutting, carving and rasping at the horse's foot, 
thereby taking upon himself the task of improving na- 
ture by means of art, which has always proven a dismal 
failure, for sooner or later, after being handled in this 
manner, you perceive a dried, contracted, pinched up or 
shriveled object instead of the broad, beautiful foot, 
with which nature in her ineffable wisdom, provided the 
animal. I will now endeavor to present to you, some 
of the pernicious and insane methods of preparing the 
foot for the shoe. Foremost among these, is the habit 
of trimming the frog. Now as the frog is nature's cush- 
ion and hoof expander, placed there to ward off con- 
cussion, through its elasticity, thereby furnishing the 
much needed protection to the other structures of the 
foot, which are possessed of a much smaller amount of 
expansion and contraction, it now being trimmed to a 
degree that deprives it of pressure, immediately com- 
mences to shrink, dry and harden, very soon presenting 
a pinched up appearance, when its usefulness to the 
foot is destroyed ; then instead of being a protection to 
the foot, as in its natural state, discharging its allotted 
function, it becomes a menace rather than a benefit to 
this organ. Next among these, is the habit of paring 
out the sole of the foot, until it yields by the pressure 
of the operator's thumbs. As the sole grows very 
slowly, and rests upon a soft, velvety cushion, from 
which it is nourished and developed, consequently when 
it is pared down until it yields to light pressure, the 
part that still remains is only partially developed, and 
when exposed to dryness and heat, the delicate half- 
formed fibres contract to such a degree that their source 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 37 

of nourishment is greatly impaired, and the process of 
development is vastly retarded ; then it is, that this 
mutilated and shrunken sole adds still more serious 
injury to the foot. Nor does the injury stop here. The 
operator proceeds to "open up the heels," as he calls 
it, by cutting out the bars and splitting down with the 
knife between the frog and the quarters. These bars 
are so arranged as to prevent the quarters from closing 
in on the frog, to prevent contraction at the heels. 
Thus, with the bars or lateral braces removed and a slice 
t;iken out in the immediate vicinity of the heels, there 
is no other alternative, in a dry climate like ours in the 
summer, but to continuously contract, until the sensi- 
tive structures of the foot are naught but a constant 
source of irritation, i^ain and misery to the horse, the 
remainder of its animal existence. Adding to this al- 
ready mutilated foot, after the shoe has been placed 
upon it and the clinches made, the rasp is brought into 
play, commencing up very closely to the hair and rasp- 
ing the whole external portion of the foot, thus robbing 
it of its natural layer of varnish, which was placed there 
by nature to prevent the evaporation of the moisture 
there secreted, for the nourishment and healthy main- 
tenance of the parts. The condition of horses' feet 
depends greatly upon the care and management they 
receive from colthood up, and were they allowed the 
privilege of standing, while in confinement, upon some 
material containing a small amount of moisture instead 
of on a dry, wooden floor, their feet would be found to 
be better shaped, tougher and less brittle, a condition 
much* better for the work to be exacted from them. 
Now in summarizing the conditions to which our horses' 
feet have been subjected, not only by the sheer, l)ut the 
owner, let us look together with more reason, and see if 
these evils cannot be abated in a great degree. As I 



88 HOME TREATMENT FOR 

have heretofore stated, the fro^, sole and bars, were 
placed in position by nature, to maintain the whole 
structure in a healthy condition, and as they have been 
mercilessly mutilated with the drawing knife, that is the 
first instrument to be discarded from the shoer's outfit. 
The frog should never be touched with either knife or 
rasp, and as only the semi-detached portions of the sole 
should be removed, in order to level the foot for the 
proper adjustment of the shoe, the rasp is the only in- 
strument that is necessary for the completion of that 
part of the work, for the shoe, when properly adjusted, 
has its bearing alike upon the horny wall, and the sole 
which is in immediate contact with it. It is a grave 
mistake to adjust a shoe and so concave the sole with 
the treacherous knife, that the only bearing the foot 
has, rests upon the wall, and the wall only. After the 
bottom of the foot has been prepared for the shoe by 
levelling it off with the rasp, the next thing in order is 
to fit the shoe, using the best of judgment as to the 
proper weight of shoe the animal should wear. The 
only legitimate use of the shoe, is to j)revent undue 
wear of the wall and sole, therefore the lighter the shoe, 
in proportion to the weight it has to sustain, the better. 
The plain shoe without calks, will allow tlie animal to 
rest in a natural position, consequently calks should be 
used only upon those horses where it is actually neces- 
sary, from the peculiar or difficult labor they have to 
perform. In such cases, a short calk answers the pur- 
].ose much better than a long one, for the toe calks wear 
down much more rapidly than the heels, resulting in a 
depressed toe and an elevated heel. Also the relative 
]:)ositions of the bone structure of the foot are altered ; 
the coffin bone becomes bruised and diseased, and possi- 
bly it may suffer during the balance of its existence. 
The weight of the shoe having been decided upon, it 



DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 39 

should now be so shaped as to conform to the size and 
shape of the foot, and not, as is too often the case, place 
on a shoe that is too small in circumference, then rasp 
down the foot to fit the shoe, in order to make it pre- 
f-entable. The upper surface of the shoe, or that part 
that comes in contact with the hoof, should be perfectly 
level ; then with the two level surfaces coming in direct 
opposition, it will require only a few nails, and these 
of a small size, to retain the shoe in position for a 
proper length of time, as the shoes should be changed 
every four or five weeks. It is no uncommon sight to see 
the sheer using heavy nails and a numerous lot of them 
driving them high up and clinching them firmly, and if 
remonstrated with or upbraided for doing such work, he 
will invariably tell you that if the shoes do not remain 
on for four or five months, the owner will go elsewhere 
to have his work done, thus losing his custom, which 
he cannot afford. Here it is clearly the owner's fault, 
either through short-sightedness or stinginess. He 
should be compelled to wear a pair of nicely fitting 
boots for a month, then supplied with a pair two sizes 
too small, and forced to wear them for the balance of 
the time the horse is compelled to wear his. I would 
venture the opinion that the horse would be taken to 
the shop immediately. A badly fitting shoe is as pain- 
ful to the horse as the tight boot would be to the owner. 
After the shoes have been fitted and the nails driven 
and clinched, nothing remains to be done outside of 
xasping off the few slight projections that may extend 
over the shoe, but, just at this point, it is a common 
sight to see the rasp applied over the whole external 
part of the wall, robbing it of its layer of natural var- 
nish, which was placed there to protect the foot, by 
holding the moisture that is secreted within. When de- 
prived of this covering, the moisture evaporates, the 



40 HOME TREATMENT FOR DOMESTICATED ANIMALS. 

foot dries and hardens, and sooner or later contracts to 
a degree that is a source of irritation and pain. This 
habit, for such it is and nothing else, should be dis- 
carded, for nothing could be devised that is calculated to 
do a greater amount of injury, than this willful, whole- 
sale and wholly uncalled for rasping. The various de- 
vices for shoeing to overcome deformities and habits, as 
well as for the production of speed, 1 will leave to the 
skillful mechanic, who understands that profession 
much better than I do, and who should receive the 
highest sense of praise, that can be bestowed upon those 
who follow this profession. 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE 

THEIR 
CAUSES. SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT. 

DISTEMPER, OR STRANGLES. 

This is a disease peculiar to the horse, but may be 
communicated to man by inoculation. It seldom at- 
tacks a horse after maturity, but attacks colts from 




DISTEMPER, OR STRANGLES. 

birth until they are five years old. The causes are 
many and varied. Among them are want of nutritious 
properties in the mother's milk, change from pasture to 
dry feed, irritation from teething, impure air, change 
from one climate to another, etc. 

Symptoms: — The colt will appear dull and stupid; 
the eyes will l)egin to water and sometimes to matter ; 
fever begins to rise; loss of appetite, coat begins to get 
rough ; discharge from the nostrils ; abscesses begin to 

(41) 



42 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

form under the lower jaw. In irregular strangles ab- 
scesses may form anywhere on the body, or in the lungs 
or intestines, making the cace very serious. 

Treatment: — The treatment is very simple. In regu- 
lar strangles place the animal in an airy, comfortable, 
loose box-stall and bed well. Blanket comfortably, 
protect from exposure to cold to prevent severe bron- 
cliitis or lung complications, and feed on soft food — such 
as bran-mashes, chopped feed, mashed turnips or car- 
rots. If the patient is constipated and the fever high, 
give four ounces of glauber salts twice a day, as a 
laxative. 

If there is a dry cough, steam the nostrils with 
scalded bran or oats, but do not smoke the colt. Poul- 
tice the throat with fried onions, boiled turnips or lin- 
eeed meal, and when the abscesses soften, lance them to 
allow the matter to escape. If the abscesses remain 
hard, apply a good stimulating liniment, as, 

Olive Oil four ounces. 

Oil Turpentine two ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. Mix. 

Apply morning and evening and gargle the throat 
with the following : 

Chlorate of Potassium one ounce. 

Nitrate of Potassium one ounce. 

Hypo-Sulphate of Soda one ounce. Mix. 

Make into twelve powders and give one powder every 
six hours. 

When lung complications show themselves, apply 
mustard along the belly and sides. During convales- 
cence, care must be taken not to expose the animal to 
cold, as a relapse might follow. Allow exercise but do 
not turn the exercise into work, until the animal has 
entirely recovered. 



EPIZOOTIC INFLUENZA. 43 

EPIZOOTIC INFLUENZA. 

This disease is very peculiar and yet not uncommon 
in this country. In 1871 it traveled from east to west 
with such rapidity, that there is little reason to doubt 
that it is produced through atmospheric influences. It 
is much more dangerous in some localities than in oth- 
ers, according to the hygienic measures employed. In 
localities that are low and malarious, with j^oor sta- 
bling, the disease is much more fatal than where the 
elevation is greater and the air dryer. But no location 
is exempt from the disease. In the same stable a num- 




EPIZOOTIC INFLUENZA. 

ber of horses may be attacked, and very severely, while 
others remain perfectly healthy. Every horse in a given 
stable may be affected, while their neighbors in a sta- 
ble across the street escape entirely. It is my opinion 
that horses poorly cared for and ill-fed, are not only 
first attacked, but the first to succumb. 

Symptoms: — The disease comes on very suddenly, 
with weakness and stupor, eyes swelled and w^atery. 
The membranes of the nostrils may be of a bright pink 
color, but are more frequently of a dull leaden hue. 
There is a dry cough, staring coat, ears and legs alter- 
nately hot and cold ; patient is feverish ; pulse acceler- 
ated — generally weak but sometimes liard; sometimes 



44 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

a watery discharge from the nostrils, afterwards assum- 
ing a yellowish or greenish color ; appetite lost ; when 
made to move, will go with a swinging gait — frequently 
crackling of the joints will be heard, when the disease 
assumes a somewhat rheumatic nature, the legs swollen, 
hot and very painful when touched. In other cases the 
lungs or abdominal viscera may be seriously involved. 
If the horse is tucked up along the abdomen, with hard 
pellets ^of dung, covered with mucus, the l)owels are at- 
tacked and your case is somewhat dangerous. If the 




FIRST STAGE OF EPIZOOTIC INFLUENZA. 

patient is tucked up in the flanks, with a ridge extend- 
ing from the flanks to the breast bone, hurried breathing 
and short, painful cough, the disease has attacked some 
part of the thoracic cavity, — either the lungs or the 
pleura, probably both — and is extremely dangerous. 

Treatment: — When first noticed, place in a comforta- 
ble, loose, box-stall, well aired but without draughts. 
Blanket well and bandage the legs. Relieve costive- 
ness with a pint of linseed or castor oil and injections of 
warm water. If the fever is high give, 

Quinine Sulph three drachms. 

Nitrate Potass one ounce. 

Bi-Carbonate Soda one and one-half ounces. Mix. 



SPASMODIC COLIC, CRAMPS. 46 

Make into six powders, of which give one every five 
3r six hours. If the horse is very weak give, 

Liq. Ammoii. Acet eight ounces. 

Spts. Nit. ^Eth four ounces. 

Tinct. Nux Vomica two ounces. Mix. 

Give two ounces every five or six hours in a little 
water as a drench. Bathe the throat with 

Witch-hazel six ounces. 

Tr. Arnica one ounce. 

Aqua Ammonia one ounce. Mix. 

Apply two or three times a day. 

Feed on soft, nutritious diet and give plenty of pure, 
fresh water. If the joints swell, bathe with. 

Alcohol eight ounces. 

Witch-hazel four ounces. 

Tr. Arnica four ounces. Mix. 

Apply twice daily and bandage. If there are any lung 
complications, use mustard freely on the sides and read 
treatise on lung diseases. If the bowels are affected^ 
give linseed jelly, slippery elm, etc. 



SPASMODIC COLIC, CRAMPS. 

Several diseases of horses, — such as affections of the 
kidneys, liver, spleen, etc., cause abdominal pain and 
are erroneously classed under the head of colic. I shall 
not treat of them here, but confine myself to spasmodic 
colic proper, which is a disease of the intestinal canal 
usually confined to the stomach and small intestines, — 
an involuntary contraction of the muscular fibres, sep- 
arate and distinct from inflammation, at the beginning 
causing intense pain in the abdominal region. There 
are many and various causes, — such as change of feed 



i6 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



from oats to corn; too high feeding; sudden changes of 
temperature, from liot to cold; standing in the rain; 
drinking ice-cold water; inniitritious food; in fact any- 




FIRST STAGE OF SPASMODIC COLIC. 

thing that will cause indigestion or irritation of the in- 
testinal canal. 

Symptoms: — The horse will generally appear uneasy, 
commence pawing and attempt to lie down, sometimes 
falling upon his knees, then raising himself up again. 
Ai the pain increases he will paw violently, suddenly 
drop down, roll around for a time, get up and stand 
apparently easy for a few minutes, possibly attempt to 
eat a few mouth-fulls. Then he is suddenly siezed 
again, paws violently, drops down again and rolls 
around — possibly rolls upon his breast and remains 
there for a time. Then commences tumbling and rolling 
again; gets up and shakes himself, and possibly tlio 



SPASMODIC COLIC, CRAMPS. 



47 



cramps are over. If not the pain continues to increase 
in intensity. It will throw itself down, roll over and 
over, jump up, whirl about, drop down again, paw or 
Btrike with the front feet, steam and sw eat, and make 




SECOND STA(3I<; OF SPASMODIC COLIC. 

frequent attemps to pass water. If a horse, frequently 
the penis will be partially erect; sometimes a small 
amount of water is passed, but more frequently none is 
passed until the spasm has passed off, when the urine 
will be voided freely, which has led many to suppose 
there was trouble with the kidneys and bladder when, 
in reality, it was only a symptom of colic. If the pain 
continues to increase in intensity, and the animal is 
not relieved, inflammation of the bowels (which is very 
dangerous) may result, or the horse may die from pain 
and exhaustion. 

Treatment: — Place the animal in a dry, well-bedded 
stall, where he is less liable to bruise himself. Rub the 
legs and abdomen and give. 

Ginger half ounce. 

Baking Soda half ounce. 

Red Pepper half ounce. Mix. 



48 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



Make it into a tea and give at one dose. If this does 
not give relief in thirty minutes, repeat again, or give, 

Barbadoes Aloes one ounce. 

Chloral Hydrate one drachm. 

Powdered Opium one drachm. Mix. 




SPASMODIC COLIC — LAST STAGE. 

If the pain increases, give, 

Spts. Nitrous ^ther,one and one-half ounces. 

Laudanum one ounce. 

Oil of Peppermint thirty drops. 

Spirits of Turpentine six drachms. 

Linseed Oil one-half pint. Mix. 

Should the pain continue, repeat the latter prescrip- 
tion every forty minutes. If you have failed to give the 
aloes, after the pains have subsided it is good policy to 
give a good physic — either a pint of linseed oil or one 
ounce of barbadoes aloes and half ounce of ginger 
combined. 



FLATULENT COLIC. 



49 



FLATULENT COLIC. 

Flatulent colic is a disease separate and distinct 
from spasmodic colic. In the former there is bloating, 
or distension with gas, of the bowels; in the latter 
tliere is no bloating whatever. Among the many causes 
are sudden changes of food, too long fasting, and food 
given while exausted, new hay or grain, large quanti- 
ties of green food, crib biting, sour, mouldy or other 




ADVANCED STAGE OF FLATULENT COLIC. 

indigestible food setting up a ferment and creating a 
greater amount of gas than can be comfortably accom- 
modated by the bowels, thus causing intense pain. 

Symptoms: — The horse will hang his head and com- 
mence looking around at his tianks; soon he will begin 
pawing, then will lie down and roll, frequently looking 
at the flanks ; the animal begins bloating and sometimes 
has belching of gas from the stomach ; the bowels grow 
more distended, the pains are continuous and grow more 
severe, the breathing is shorter and the animal groans or 
grunts while lying down and often while standing; the 
legs and ears become cold, cold sweats break out over 



50 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

the body. The disease is usually of short duration and, 
if not speedily relieved, ends in death. 

Treatment: — When first noticed, in the absence of 
other remedies, give two ounces of baking soda. If no 
relief is obtained in thirty minutes, give. 

Chloral Hydrate two ounces. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Give half in a pint of water and if necessary repeat 
in forty minutes, or give, 

Linseed Oil one pint. 

Spts. Turpentine two ounces. Mix. 

If that fails to neutralize the gas, give 

Liq. Ammonia Acet three ounces. 

Chloral Hydrate four drachms. 

Bi Carbonate Soda two drachms. 

Tinct. Aconite twenty drops. 

Water one-half pint. 

Repeat every thirty minutes. 

Give injections of hot water and castile soap every 
twenty minutes. If the bloating continues, tap with a 
trocar and canula, on the right side, between the hip 
and ribs, where it is most resonant on percussion. 
After recovery give a pint of linseed oil or castor oil. 



GLANDERS, OR FARCY. 

Glanders is a specific febrile disease peculiar to the 
horse, mule and ass; and, by inoculation, it can be 
communicated to man. Its causes are keeping horses in 
damp filthy stables, impure air, improper feeding, 
impaired nutrition, sequelae of "grease heels," sequelae 
of epizootic influenza ; also contagion, which is by. far 
the most common. 



GLANDERS, OR FARCY. 



51 



Symptoms: — Dullness, decreased appetite, eyes water- 
ing, fever rising from 102° to 107° F., coat staring, at 
first watery discharge from the nostrils; discharge 
afterwards turns to a yellowish and later t« a yellowish 
green, and is very tenacious; in the nostrils reddish 
ulcerations appear, later becoming purpleish ; all over 
the . body the lymphatic glands become enlarged, fre- 
quently breaking and discharging matter ; the sub-max- 
illary glands enlarge and harden, later on becoming 
adherent to the jaw; breath foetid; by auscultation, 




GLANDERS. 

crepitation of the lungs will be discovered ; the dis- 
charge from the nostrils becomes very profuse and 
more greenish in color; fever now stands from 105° to 
107° F. ; quite frequently the limbs will swell, — more 
particularly about the joints. 

Treatment: — The best treatment is the destruction of 
the animal as soon as thoroughly satisfied he has glan- 
ders. Separate all animals which have come in contact 
with him. If treatment be attempted, place the animal 
where he can have plenty of fresh air and try the sul- 
phites — as sulphite of sodium, benzoate of sodium, 
arsenate of strychnia, carbolic acid; also vegetable 
and mineral tonics — as sulphate of iron, sulphate of 
copper, gentian, ginger, nux vomica, etc. 



52 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

ANAEMIA, OR DROPSY. 

This is a term used to denote a deficiency of red 
corpuscles in the blood. The disease is caused by 
excessive bleeding, deteriorated food, keeping in ill- 
ventilated, filthy stables, without much light, effects of 
fevers, severe or protracted diarrhoea, leucorrhoea ; it 
sometimes results from epizootic influenza. 

Symptoms: — Pallor of the mucous membranes; is 
tucked up in the flanks, cardiac palpitation, disinclina- 
tion to move, staggering gait, paleness of eyes and eye- 
lids, coat more or less rough ; later on, if a horse, a 
swelling of the sheath — if a mare, swellings of a drop- 
sical nature under the breast, slight at first, but grad- 
ually extending both backward and forward ; in the 
horse usually extending from the sheath forward ; the 
limbs begin swelling, sometimes reaching an enormous 
size ; on scarifying the swelling, there will be an oozing 
out of serum, barely colored with blood, which may be 
continued for days, — you will also find the flesh of a 
bluish color ; appetite sometimes fair, usually for hay 
but not for grain ; bowels generally constipated, but 
sometimes a diarrhoea will set in which, if not checked, 
will commonly prove fatal; rumbling of the bowels is 
invariably a constant symptom. 

Treatment: — If possible remove the cause as soon as 
can be ; give plenty of light and fresh air. If necessary, 
regulate the bowels with a pint of castor oil. Give 
strengthening and easily digested food — such as ground 
oats, beans, boiled flaxseed, etc. Administer such rem- 
edies as will tend to build up the system, as 

Sulphate of Iron two ounces. 

Gentian one ounce. 

Nux Vomica one ounce. 

Arsenic thirtv grains. Mix. 



EPISTAXIS, OR BLEEDING FROM THE NOSTRILS. 53 

Make fifteen powders ; give one powder every five or 
six hours ; or use any of the mineral or vegetable tonics, 
as, cascarrilla, quassia, gentian, sulphate of copper, etc. 
Regulate the kidneys with drachm doses of nitrate of 
potassium. Bed the animal well. When the sheath is 
much swollen, scarify lightly. 



EPISTAXIS, OR BLEEDING FROM THE NOSTRILS. 

This disease seldom occurs. It is usually caused by 
hard running, sneezing, coughing, by external injuries, 
congestion of the lungs, bronchitis, or influenza. 

Symptoms: — If the blood is merely dropping or run- 
ning in a small stream from one nostril, some small 
blood vessel in the head is ruptured. If the blood flows 
in a stream and comes from both nostrils and is of a 
bright scarlet color, quite frothy and accompanied by a 
cough, the blood is coming from the lungs. If it comes 
away in dark colored clots, it is in all probability com- 
ing from the stomach. 

Treatment: — If from some ruptured blood vessel in 
the head, elevate the head and apply cold water over it 
and down over the nostrils, or apply ice to the head. 
Inject weak solutions of alum water up the nostril, or a 
weak solution of sulphate of zinc; or plug the nostril 
with a sponge or cotton batting, but be sure and have a 
string tied to it to draw it out and only plug one nostril 
at a time. If the bleeding continues for some hours, 
give one drachm of sugar of lead in a pint of water, as a 
drench. If the bleeding is from the lungs and is accom- 
panied by a cough, give, 

Laudanum two ounces. 

Raw Linseed Oil half j)int. Mix. 



54 DISEASES OE THE HOESE. 

Give at one dose. If the bleeding continues, take, 

Sugar of Lead one drachm. 

Water one pint. 

Give at one dose and keep the animal perfectly 
quiet. 



AZOTURIA, OR PARTIAL PARALYSIS. 

By some this disease has been described as a disease 
of the kidneys, by others as a disease of the spine and 
by others as a disease of the liver. But I have invari- 
ably found the whole system more or less affected, from 




AZOTURIA. 

an abnormal amount of nitrogen in the blood, which is 
caused by high feeding and want of exercise. As the 
animal is put to work, there is a greater amount of 
waste material cast upon the excretory organs than they 
can well dispose of; hence an excess of nitrogen is 
formed in the blood and is carried through the system, 
invariably settling in the myolema or coverings of the 
deep muscles of the haunch, causing partial and some- 
times complete paralysis of the hind extremities. 



AZOTURIA, OR PARTIAL PARALYSIS. 55 

Symptoms : — Invariably the horse leaves the stable in 
the best of health, and, as the driver says, " the horse 
was never feeling better. " But it is probably not 
driven over half a mile, possibly five or six miles, when 
he is noticed to hang back, to be covered with profuse 
perspiration and to be stiff in his hind legs. Other 
symptoms, are looking back at the flanks, anxious 
expression of countenance, breathing short, nostrils dis- 
tended and red, staring eyes, drooping of the liind legs 
and knuckling over at the fetlocks, as though there was 
no strength in them ; after staggering around for awhile 
the animal falls and is unable to get up, — although they 
sometimes keep upon their feet in a mild attack and, if 
so, are most likely to recover in a few days ; if urine is 
passed it will be very dark, sometimes looks bloody, 
smells very strong and is very ropy. 

Treatment: — If the horse remains very uneasy, give 
four drachm doses of bromide of potassium every hour 
until relieved ; then remove to a comfortable place and 
bed well. Clean out the bowels well by giving, 

Barbadoes Aloes.. eight or ten drachms. 

Ginger two drachms. Mix. 

Give in one j)int of Avater as a drench. While 
tlie animal is perspiring, l)lanket well and keep sweat- 
ing. Apply a fresh sheep-skin over the loins and cover 
well, or apply cloths wrung out of hot water over the 
loins, and be careful the animal does not take cold. If 
the kidneys do not act freely, give one ounce tinct. 
buchu compound, every six or seven hours in a little 
syrup as a drench. And in a few days give. 

Tincture Gentian two ounces. 

Tincture Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Tincture Ginger four ounces. 

Alcohol eiffht ounces. Mix. 



56 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Give two ounces every four or five hours. Bathe 
the back and loins with a good, strong liniment once 
or twice a day, also rub from the stifle to the point 
of the hip. Turn the horse over from one side to the 
other every three or four hours, and occasionally sponge 
him off with dilute alcohol. If shod, remove the shoes 
and keep lying upon the breast as much as possible. 
I believe it bad policy in such cases to swing the horse, 
unless the slings can be got under him before he goes 
down, — then it is advisable ; but after he is down 
for a few hours, do not attempt to swing. If the 
patient lies upon his breast well and rests easy, you 
may look for recovery in a few days ; if he lies straight 
out, the inevitable result is death in a few days. Should 
tlie animal not urinate properly, pass the catheter and 
draw off the urine. If in twenty-four hours the bowels 
do not respond to the aloes, give a quart of raw linseed 
oil ; also give injections of castile soap and hot water. 



NASAL CATARRH, OR COLD IN THE HEAD. 

This quite frequently arises from standing in a 
draught, from inhalation of irritating gases, or from de- 
cayed teeth. 

Symptoms: — Discharge, watery at first, from the nos- 
trils, also from the eyes ; sneezing ; later on a discharge 
of matter from the nostrils of a thick, mucilaginous 
state, of a yellowish white color, and it may be quite 
profuse. It is sometimes very foetid, especially when 
from a diseased tooth ; sometimes ulcers will appear on 
the septum of the nose, when the discharge is of a 
muco-purulent character ; often the appetite is lost and 
•the animal becomes debilitated. 



;<)i.i)MC ROARiiVG. 57 

Treatment: — Complete rest, with pure air and good 
food for a few days should be granted. Steaming the 
nostrils with hot water or scalded bran, to which may 
be added a little carbolic acid, "four or five times a day 
and about fifteen minutes each time, will be of great 
benefit and cannot be over-estimated. Feed such food 
as the animal will partake, bran-mash, scalded oats or 
barley; green grass if it can be procured, but if the 
patient prefers hay, oats, corn or other dry food, give it. 
If there is loss of appetite, get liq. amnion, acet., sixteen 
ounces. Give two ounces with two drachms of chlorate 
of potash, in a pint of water, three times a day. After 
a few days give, 

Powd. Sulph. Iron two ounces. 

Gentian one ounce. 

Quinine four drachms. Mix. 

Make twelve powders. Give three powders each 
day. If the weather is cold, blanket and keep the ani- 
mal warm. If from a diseased tooth, the tooth should be 
extracted, and if there is matter in the frontal sinuses, 
they should be trephined and washed out with, 

Listerine four ounces. 

Sulphate of Zinc one-half drachm. 

Water four ounces. Mix. 

Use morning and evening. 



CHRONIC ROARING. 



This is so called from the roaring, rasping, unnatural 
sound when the horse is put to work, and is caused by 
atrophy or wasting of the muscles on the left side of the 
larynx, by distemper, by epizootic influenza, by polypus 
in the nostrils ; also by spasmodic constriction of the 
bronchial tubes from tonic contraction, mostly reflex of 
the involuntary muscular fibres ; by fracture of the bones 



58 ■ DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

of the nose, — when the fracture is depressed ; by an. 
extra amount of fat, by dropsical swellings, etc. 

Treatment: — First, if possible, remove the cause. If 
that cannot be done, treatment is useless. If caused l-y 
atrophy of the muscles of the larynx, apply every liftli 
day, for three or four applications, a blister of 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Bin-Iodide Mercury one drachm. 

Powdered Cantharides. . ..one drachm. Mix. 
If caused by polypus, have it removed. If from fat, 
reduce in flesh. In the majority of cases the roaring is 
made during the inspiration. The horse seemingly 
inhales more air than the lungs can dispose of ; conse- 
quently he roars and chokes down when put to work. 
By using a clasp over the nostrils, it holds them so he 
can only take in a certain amount of air at each inspi- 
ration ; when put to work, the roaring will be stopped, 
and the horse will do a reasonable amount of work. 
The clasp may be taken oft' after he has been working. 
an hour, and, in the majority of cases, the animal will 
breathe freely. In order to keep horses from roaring 
badly, work them moderately every day. The operation 
of extirpating the collapsed cartilage and vocal cord, i& 
the only way to give permanent relief, when the roaring- 
is caused from wasting away of the muscles of the 
larynx, and as that requires a skillful practioner, it is 
quite unnecessary to describe it here. 



BRONCHITIS. 



This is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes. The 
mucous membrane alone may be affected or the whole 
tube may be involved. When the large tubes alone are 
affected, it is much less serious than when the smaller 
ones are involved. It is caused by standing in draughts- 



BRONCHITIS. 59 

when heated, inhaling irritating gases and smoke, and 
by drenching through the nostrils, whereby both fluids 
and solids gain access to the parts. It occasionally 
follows influenza, distemper and other specific fevers, or 
even common cold or sore throat. 

Symptoms : — Systemic depression, dullness ; the appe- 
tite is partially or wholly lost, breathing quickened, 
redness and dryness of the mucous membrane of the 
nostrils, followed by fever and a hacking, barking cough, 
followed in a few days by a moist, rattling cough, with a 
light-colored discharge from the nostrils. Sometimes 
this discharge is tinged with blood. The pulse at first 
is hard and quick ; later it becomes smaller and more 
frequent. By placing your ear to the side of the chest, 
you will hear a wheezing sound, if the small tubes are 
affected, and a rattling, snoring sound if the large tubes 
are affected. In a few days the cough becomes deeper 
and looser and tlie mucous which is secreted, is expec- 
torated through the nostrils, although some of it may 
drop into the pharynx and be swallowed. The breath- 
ing is labored, short and quick but not necessarily 
painful. The bowels are generally constipated and the 
dung is covered with a slimy mucous. 

Treatment: — Place the animal in a comfortable and 
airy stall and blanket well. Apply mustard to the 
sides and breast. Hand rub the legs until they are 
warm, then apply flannel bandages as high up as the 
knees and hocks. If the legs cannot be made warm by 
hand rubbing alone, apply whisky and red pepper 
mixed, and then bandage. Compel the patient to inhale 
steam from a bucket in which has been placed an ounce 
of turpentine, four or five times a day, and give 

Bicarbonate of Potassium, two drachms. 

Dover's Powders one drachm. 

Liq. Ammonia Acet three ounces. Mix. 



60 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Give every four or five hours ; and if the cough is 
very tight, give every three or four hours, 

Syrup of Ipecac four drachms. 

Syrup of Squills six drachms. 

Tinct. Opii C^auiph six drachms. Mix. 

Continue until the cough softens. 
If the bowels are costive, do not give physic, but 
give a few injections of warm water and castile soap. 
If tlie appetite remains passibly good, feed on soft diet, 
as bran mash, scalded oats, green grass, etc., and in 
case the patient does not relish cooked food, feed any- 
thing that it will eat, and allow all the water the 
patient will drink. Give as it comes from the well. 
Do not think the disease can be cured in two or three 
days for it will likely last for two or three weeks. 
When the patient is making a good recovery, and noth- 
ing remains except the cough and a slight discharge 
from the nostrils, discontinue all other remedies and 
give the following: 

Sulphate of Iron four ounces. 

Gentian eight ounces. 

Nux Vomica two ounces. Mix. 

Make twenty powders. Give one powder morning 
and evening in soft food or as a drench. Do not put 
the animal at work too soon, as a slight relapse may 
develop into a chronic case and terminate in an incur- 
able case of thick wind. 



SORE THROAT, OR LARYNGO PHARYNGITIS. 

This disease affects the larynx and pharynx, situated 
at the upper part of the vi^ind-pipe, and consists of an 
inflammation of the soft tissues of both. 

Symptoms : — The disease is sometimes ushered in by a 
chill, immediately followed by fever; and if the attack 



SORE THROAT, OR LARYNGO PHARYNaiTIS. 



61 



is very severe, the nose will be elevated, to straighten 
the air passages. Swellings, sometimes very large exter- 
nally, and most frequently noticed behind the jaws on 
the neck. Sometimes they are so extensive that the 
animal can scarcely breathe or can only do so with the 
greatest difficulty ; there will be a wheezing sound at 
each inspiration. During this period the heart becomes 
excited and its pulsations rapid. The mucous mem- 
branes in the nostrils will be of a bluish color, owing to 
the lack of sufficient fresh air in the lungs to oxidize 




3ANDAGE FOR LARYNGITIS AND INFLAMMATION 
OF THE LUNGS. 

the blood. If the patient is in a box stall, it will wander 
around considerably and endeavor to keep its nose in 
the direction where there is most fresh air. If the 
animal attempts to eat, the food will be chewed and 
dropped out of the mouth ; and, on attempting to drink, 
the water will be ejected through the nostrils. In some 
cases the cough is very loud, but in many, — especially 
when the internal swelling is very great, the cough will 
be very slight. P'requently there is a discharge from 
the nostrils and an abundant flow of ropy saliva from 
the mouth. 



62 DISEASES OE THE HORSE. 

Treatment ; — Blanket well and place the patient in a 
comfortable and airy box-stall, devoid of draughts. 
Bandage the legs, and if possible give as a physic : 

Aloes seven drachms. 

Ginger one drachm. Mix, 

Give at one dose. Then bathe the throat well with 
warm water and wrap it up in rugs or sheep-skins to 
keep it warm. Steam the nostrils with scalded bran or 
oats and give, 

Solid Ext. Belladonna one ounce. 

Chlorate of Potassium one ounce. 

Pulv. Glycyrrhiza one ounce. ' 

Gum Camphor one-half ounce. 

Honey of Sim. Syrup . . one-half pound. Mix. 
Give a table-spoonful three times a day. If the 
weather is in any way cold or disagreeable, be very 
careful about bathing the throat with hot water, as the 
patient may take cold. So, immediately after bathing, 
apply, 

Olive Oil four ounces. 

Turpentine two ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Tincture Cantharides .... three ounces. 

Tincture Capsicum one ounce. 

Rectified Spirits four ounces. Mix. 

The danger from cold will be greatly lessened. It 
also acts as a good counter-irritant, reduces the swell- 
ing, removes the effusions by promoting absorption, and 
leaves the patient less liable to be " thick-winded, " or 
" a roarer. " The diet should be of soft food, as bran 
mash, or chopped feed mixed with a little linseed meal. 
Sometimes it is advisable to gargle the mouth with some 
cooling lotion; in such cases use, 



PNEUMONIA OR INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. 63 

Povvd. Ohlor. of Potassium .one ounce. 

Powd. Nit of Potassium . . . one ounce. 

Bi-Carbonate of Soda one ounce. Mix. 

Make into twelve powders. Tliree times a day mix 
one powder with half a pint of water and gargle the 
mouth. If the swelling " i^oints, " open with a lancet 
and allow the pus to escape. Dress the cavity three 
times a day with, 

Permanganate of Potassium, one drachm. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 



PNEUMONIA OR INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. 

This consists of an inflammation of the lung sub- 
stance caused by catching cold, inhaling irritating 
substances, injuries, drenching through the nostrils, 
badly ventilated stables, etc. 

Symptoms : — The horse is generally taken with a 
chill ; liangs his head ; there is redness of the eyes and of 
the membranes of the nostrils, dryness of the mouth, a 



I PNEUMONIA, OR INFLAMMATION OF 

THE LUNGS. 

cough, quite deep at first, which gradually shortens for 
a few days; pulse, at first generally full, gradually 
growing faster and weaker; rapid breathing; on the 
third day fever ranges from 103° to 106° and continued 



64 DISEASES OP THE HORSE. 

until about the sixth or seventh day, when it gradually 
declines; on the third or fourth it is likely there will be 
a discharge of mucous from the nostrils; about the 
seventh -day when the fever subsides, the horse will 




LAST STAGE OF INFLAMMATION OP THE LUNGS. 

either get well or there will be great oppression in 
breathing, increased prostration, deeper cough, more 
copious expectoration, emitting a foetid, purulent odor ; 
and death will result from the sixth to the twentieth day. 
Treatment : — Place the animal in a comfortable, airy, 
loose box stall, devoid of draughts. Blanket the body 
to keep warm. Hand rub the legs and if warmth can- 
not be produced by hand rubbing alone, apply whisky 
and red pepper mixed; then bandage as high up as 
they are cold. Do not give a physic but open the 
bowels with soft foods and injections of warm water. 
Some practitioners will scoff at the id^a of bleeding, 
nevertheless a plethoric, robust horse, in many instances, 
will be greatly benefited in the first three or four days 
by being bled, while an older and debilitated patient 
would succumb. Apply mustard to the sides and give 
the following : 

Liq. Ammonia Acet • • . .twelve ounces. 

Spts. Aeth. Nit fdur ouuces. 

Fluid Ext. Aconite one drachm. Mix. 



PLEURISY. 65 

Give two ounces every three hours in a little water 
as a drench. Also give every four or five liours, 

Quinine Sulph forty grains. 

Nitrate of Potassium two drachms. Mix. 

Or, 
Powd. Ext. Belladonna. . .one scruple. 

Gum Camphor two scruples. 

Nitrate of Potassium one draclim. Mix. 

Give all the water the horse will drink, — just as it 
comes from the well, and feed on soft diet. If there is 
great prostration give tonic stimulants, as. 

Alcohol eight ounces. 

Tinct. Ginger three ounces. 

Tinct. Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Tinct. Gentian three ounces. Mix. 

Give two ounces as occasion demands, in half pint of 
water as a drench. During the period of convalescence, 
good, nutritous food should be given in limited quanti- 
ties, and tonic medicines administered, as, 

Sulphate of Iron four ounces. 

Gentian six ounces. 

Nux Vomica two ounces. Mix. 

Make twenty powders. Give one powder morning 
and evening in soft food or as a drench. 



PLEURISY. 

This is an inflammation of the lining membrane of 
the thoracic cavity. Generally after a chill or cold 
stage, sharp pains begin in the sides; the animal fre- 
quently will look at his sides and lie down very care- 
fully, then rise again ; tlie skin is hot, breathing short, 
also a short cough ; no discharge from the nose ; pulse 
hard and rapid ; abdomen tucked up, and a ridge ex- 



66 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

tending from the hips to the breast-bone ; on punching 
between the ribs, wlien the seat of inflammation ia 
reached, the animal will evince pain by grunting; if the 
animal lies down it will invariably lie on the affected 
side, but they more frequently stand up. The second 
day, effusion of serum takes place ; then the pulse 
will become slower and fuller, breathing will be easier 
and the animal seemingly is Avell again. And, if the 
effusion is not very great, it will soon be absorbed and 
ithe animal is well. But, if the effusion is great, the 




-s=X.«^— ^-^a^^v 



PLEURISY. 

breathing becomes hurried and short; the pulse grows 
fast and weak ; the ridge from the hip to the breast ia 
more prominent ; appetite almost completely gone, cold 
sweats break out and imminent danger is at hand. 

Treatment: — Place tlie animal in a comfortable, airy, 
loose box-stall, free from draught. Blanket comforta- 
bly and warm the legs by hand rubbing, after which 
bandage with flannel to keep warm. Allow all the 
pure, cold water the animal will drink, and feed upon 
soft food, as bran-mash, boiled oats, etc. If it will not 
eat soft food, give it what it will eat. When the pain 
is severe, as is observed at the commencement of the 
attack, give the following drench : 

Raw Linseed Oil one pint. 

Laudanum two ounces. Mix. 



PLEURISY. 67 

If the pain continues, give ounce doses of laudanum 
every four hours. Then give, every six hours, the fol- 
lowing : 

Liq. Amraon Acet twelve ounces. 

Spts. of Nitrous Ether .... four ounces. Mix. 
Dose, four ounces in a pint of water as a drench. 
Also the following : 

Powd. Potass. Nit two ounces. 

Sodae Bi-Carb two ounces. Mix. 

Make into ten powders. Give one powder morning 
and evening in soft food, drinking water or as a drench. 
Hot flax-seed poultices applied to the sides are very bene- 
ficial, and in the absence of flax-seed, good mustard plas- 
ters applied will assist in promoting absorption. If the 
patient becomes weak and debilitated, give stimu- 
lants, as. 

Alcohol eight ounces. 

Tr. Ginger three ounces. 

Tr. Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Tr. Gentian three ounces. Mix. 

Give two ounces three times a day in half pint o^ 
water as a drench. Keep the bowels moving freely by 
frequent doses of raw linseed oil, which will assist in 
carrying off the effusion of serum that settles around 
the lungs. 

But if the effusion of serum within the thoracic cav- 
ity is yery great and the breathing hurried, the chest 
should be tapped. Although the operation is simple 
and easily performed, it does not always result satisfac- 
torily, probably because delayed too long. The proper 
place to operate is between the eighth and ninth ribs, 
as close as possible to the ninth rib. It should be done 
with trocar and canula, two-thirds the way down to- 
ward the bottom of the chest. After tapping give the 
following : 



68 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



Iodide of Potassium one ounce. 

Whiskey one pint. Mix. 

Give a wine-glassfull every six hours ; also give daily 
one ounce of tincture perchloride of iron. Apply a 
good mustard plaster to the sides or a good cantharides 
liniment. Or if the tapping is not resorted to, the latter 
prescription, as well as the perchloride of iron, may be 
given with excellent results. 



CHRONIC COUGH. 



A cough is not a disease but a symptom of a disease, 
usually of the throat, lungs, bronchial tubes or some 
portion of the air passages. A chronic cough is a 




CHRONIC COUGHi. 

symptom of some chronic derangement of the air 
passages, the result of an incomplete recovery from 
some acute affection, as pneumonia, bronchitis, laryn- 
gitis, influenza, heaves, etc. It is also an accompani- 
ment of heaves, and a symptom of diseases not classed 



CHRONIC COUGH. 69 

with disorders of the respiratory organs, as diseases of 
the stomach, worms, etc. Wlien intiammation of the 
membranes lining the throat and bronchial tubes 
becomes chronic, the parts are very irritable and easily 
excited. Inhaling cold air suddenly, or dust, either 
from the hay or while on the road, or pinching the 
throat between the finger and thumb, will cause a 
heavy fit of coughing that will last for a few minutes 
and then cease until irritated again. 

Symptoms: — The location of the diseased parts is 
determined by the nature and sound of the cough. The 
healthy cough is strong, full and often accompanied by 
a sneeze to clear the nostrils of whatever may be 
within them. The heave cough is at first spasmodic, 
becoming feeble, short and suppressed and accompanied 
by a grunt. The throat cough is light, short and hack- 
ing, and the chest cough is hollow deep and resonant, 
except during the acute, painful stages of inflammation, 
when it is short and almost noiseless. 

Treatment : — Chronic cough in many instances is 
incurable, especially in cases of longstanding; the more 
recent cases, however, often yield to treatment. When 
the irritation is in the upper part of the throat, great 
benefit will be derived from the application of a goo(^ 
stimulating liniment, as. 

Sweet Oil four ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. 

Turpentine two ounces. Mix. 

Apply thoroughly around the throat up to the ears 
once daily, and give internally, 

Chlorate of Potassium two ounces. 

Camj)hor Gum one ounce. 

Solid Ext. Belladonna one ounce. 

Molasses, or Honey eight ounces. Mix. 



70 DISEASES OF THE HOKSE. 

Place a teaspoonful on the hack part of the tongue 
three times a day, or give a teaspoonful of oil tar once 
daily, or. 

Chlorate of Potassium .... two ounces. 

Bicarbonate of Potassium. two ounces. Mix. 
Make twelve powders. Give one powder morning 
and evening in half pint of water, or, 

Gum Camphor one ounce. 

Powd. Digitalis one ounce. 

Calomel one ounce. 

Linseed Meal two ounces. Mix. 

Make twelve pills. Give one pill every day for a 
week, then omit for a week, and repeat. Careful 
attention should be paid to the diet. Feed soft food ; 
cut the hay and wet it, and mix chop feed with it. 
Allow an abundance of pure, fresh air. If grass is in 
season, turn out to pasture as much as possible, for the 
benefit resulting from this course, is sometimes wonder- 
ful, being often productive of more good than a course 
of medical treatment. 



CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. 

Congestion is generally a fore-runner of inflamma- 
tion of the lungs, although we frequently see cases 
where it never reaches the inflammatory stage ; the 
patient either recovers or dies while the lungs are in the 
congested condition. Horses that are kept in the stable 
and fed and groomed well, Avithout sufficient exercise, 
when taken out and put to severe exertion, are subjects 
for congestion of the lungs. In the same way when ani- 
mals sufl^ering from influenza, catarrh or any other 
respiratory trouble, are put to severe work, congestion 
may be looked for. Or an animal unaccustomed to long 



CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. 71 

drives, when driven a good distance on a hot day, may- 
be stricken with congestion of the lungs; or it may 
result from badly ventilated stable, etc. 

Symptoms: — When caused from over-exertion in an 
animal unaccustomed to severe exercise, the patient 
will stand with limbs out-stretched, neck extended, 
head depressed, anxious looking countenance, flapping 
of the nostrils, heaving in flanks, more or less trembling 
over the whole body, with perspiration breaking out and 




CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. 



rolling off in large drops. The limbs become cold, the 
eyes look blood-shot, the pulse is fast and feeble and 
the heart, as felt on the left side, is rapid and jerking. 
By placing the ear to the breast of the patient, you will 
hear minute crepitation or sharp, fine, crackling sounds. 
The nasal membrane will be of a deep red or blue color 
and the breathing will be quick, labored and wheezy. 
If blood is extracted, it looks very dark. 

Treatment: — As soon as congestion is observed and 
although the attack may be severe, by using very sim- 
ple remedies, great relief may be obtained. If any 
wind is blowing, turn the animal's head toward it, then 



72 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

blanket well and rub the limbs thoroughly, or rub on 
some good, strong liniment and bandage to keep warm. 
Bleeding at this time will be of great benefit in assist- 
ing to unload the over-charged lungs. Thorough rub- 
bing all over the body with cloths, hay or the hands, 
will tend to bring the blood to the surface and assist in 
equalizing the circulation. Then give. 

Whiskey four ounces. 

Hot- Water half pint. Mix. 

Give every half hour until three or four doses are 
given. Or, 

Liq. Ammonia Acetatis ten ounces. 

Whiskey six ounces. Mix. 

Give three ounces every hour in half pint of Avater. 
After the acute symptoms have subsided, be very care- 
ful for a few days. Allow plenty of pure, fresli air and 
water, feed on soft food, to which may be added night 
and morning, one powder of 

Nitrate of Potass two ounces. 

Bi-Carbonate of Soda one ounce. Mix. 

Make six powders. Blanket well to keep warm and 
allow only moderate exercise, for you should bear in 
mind, that for some time after an attack, another is lia- 
ble to occur from trifling causes and may terminate in a 
more serious complaint, inllammation of the lungs. 



ASTHMA. 

That a condition does exist, wherein a chronic spasm 
of the bronchial muscular tissues is seen as a distinct 
and separate affection from heaves, there is no longer 
doubt. From the strong similarity between the two dis- 
eases, and also from the fact that asthma is sometimes 
a precursor of heaves, the two ailments have become 



ASTHMA. 73 

confounded and looked upon as synonymous. Asthma 
is hereditary in the majority of cases, and it may occur 
at any a^e. It is also caused by fog, smoke, fumes 
from various things; from fatigue and overwork when 
the system is debilitated, irritation of the stomach from 
indigestion, etc. 

Symptoms: — The difficult breathing, which is of a 
spasmodic character, generally develops suddenly and 
is quite severe while it lasts, and may terminate very 
speedily. Again it will last for months, unless 
relieved. There is also a wheezing sound accompanying 
inspiration; cough is short, quick and suppressed ; great 
anxiety of countenance, which disappears to a great ex- 
tent when expectoration commences. The chest and 
abdomen very much resemble those of heaves, in the 
fixed or set position of the ribs and the double lift of 
the flank during the respiratory act. 

Treatment*. — During the attack, the aim should be to 
give relief by relaxing the spasm, and what will accom- 
plish this in one animal, will fail in another. You will 
therefore have to try several remedies, and when one is 
found that will answer that particular case, continue 
with it. Open the bowels with a quart of raw linseed 
oil, and give drachm doses of tincture of lobelia, every 
two hours, until five or six doses are given. If this does 
not give relief, try Hoflf'man's anodyne, two drachm 
doses every two hours; or two drachm doses of chloral 
hydrate, every hour, until five or six doses are given ; 
dilute the chloral with a pint of water. Or give bro- 
mide of potassium, two drachm doses every three or 
four hours, or half ounce doses of laudanum every hour, 
until five or six doses have been given. AiDply mustard 
plasters to the sides; feed on light, soft diet; keep tlie 
body warm and the stomach quite empty. After the 



74 DISEASES OF THE HOKSE. 

most distressing symptoms have subsided and the 
trouble still lingers, feed the animal some cedar or hein- 
lock boughs, as excellent results have been obtained 
from their use. 



QUINSY. 

This consists of an inflammation in the throat of a 
deep-seated character, tending to the formation of 
abscesses which are somewhat slow at development, but 
which subsequently break internally and are discharged 
through the nostrils. 

Causes : — Some horses are seemingly predisposed to 
quinsy. Often it is the result of exposure to cold 
storms or standing in drafts when heated. It may also 
be caused by neglected catarrh or anything causing an 
irritation and inflammation of the throat. Many cases 
of supposed influenza are really quinsy. 

Symptoms : — Fever is usually present from the out- 
set. There is usually soreness of the throat in swallow- 
ing, with internal pain and swellings on one or l>oth 
sides of the neck. Sometimes there is external swelling 
which can be plainly seen. Soreness of the throat 
increases day by day, until there is complete inability 
to swallow. The breathing is considerably affected ; the 
symptoms become somewhat alarming, when suddenly 
the abscess bursts and matter gushes from the nostrils. 
The animal is immediately relieved and recovery soon 
follows : 

Treatment: — Place the patient in a clean, comfortable 
stall devoid of drafts, and blanket well ; then if possible, 
administer a pint and a-half of raw linseed oil, to. be 
followed with, 



SPASM OF THE DIAPHRAGM — THUMPS. 75 

Nitrate of Potassium two ounces. 

Sweet Spirits of Nitre two ounces. 

Tincture Aconite one drachm. 

Water to make one pint. Mix. 

Give one ounce every two or three hours until the 
fever subsides, then give three or four times a day. 
Apply linseed meal poultices all around the throat, well 
up to the ears, changing them daily, and while changing 
apply quite freely to the throat, 

Sweet Oil four ounces. 

Turpentine tAvo ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. Mix. 

Feed on soft bran mashes or boiled food, and keep 
a bucket of cold water within reach of the animal, con- 
tinuously. If no abscesses form, the recovery will be 
rapid, or in case abscesses do form, as soon as they 
burst, recovery immediately follows. Two or three 
weeks frequently pass before the rupture takes place. 
Should the symptoms become very alarming, the 
abscesses should be opened internally, and this requires 
the skill of a veterinary surgeon. 



SPASM OF THE DIAPHRAGM— THUMPS. 

The diaphragm is the principal muscle used in 
breathing, and is situated between the lungs and 
bowels, forming a sort of partition between them. 
Spasm of this muscle is caused by extreme and pro- 
longed speeding upon the road or race track, also by 
hauling heavy loads a long distance on a hot day, or by- 
doing any severe work on a hot summer day. The 
severe strain or over taxation of this muscle causes an 
irritation of the nerves controlling it, and violent and 
forcible contractions follow, which may be observed by 



76 DISEASES OE THE HOKSE. 

a jerk or a thump in the region of the chest. It is 
sometimes mistaken for violent action of the heart, but 
by feeling the pulse and watching the thumping, it will 
be discovered that they do not act together. 

Treatment : — If nothing better is convenient, give six 
ounces of whisky in a pint of hot water, repeating in 
one hour ; or, 

Chloroform six drachms- 
Whisky four ounces. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose and repeat in one hour if neces- 
sary, or, 

Chloral Hydrate one ounce. 

Sulphate of Morphia forty grains. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Give half and repeat in one hour. After you have 
controlled the spasm, allow" absolute rest for a week or 
ten days. If when put to severe exertion the thumps 
return, the animal should be worked either at very 
slow, light work, or turned to pasture for six months. 



HEAVES. 

This disease very closely resembles asthma in man, 
but is more continuous in its symptoms. One of the 
principal causes is over-feeding on clover hay ; but over- 
feeding with any bulky food, causing overloading and 
distention of the stomach, will produce heaves. Dis- 
eases of the lungs are also said to be a cause. I believe 
that large horses with small chests are more susceptible 
to this disease than those with large chests. Therefore, 
from mares that breed such colts with small chests, de- 
veloping heaves at the period between six and ten years 
of age, the disease truly may be said to be hereditary. 



LYMPHANGITIS, INFLAMMATION OF THE LYMPHATICS. 77 

Symptoms: — No fever, but short, hacking cough; 
sometimes discharge from the nose of a mattery sub- 
stance ; heavy, abdominal breathing, with a double lift 
of the flank at each inspiration ; a wheezing sound is 
made when the animal is put to work ; breathing very 
difficult on sultry, foggy days; the animal usually eats 
dirt and filth, and, invariably, when the animal coughs, 
wind will pass off from the bowels. 

Treatment : — Keep the animal out of the stable both 
winter and summer and let it run on pasture as much as 
possible. When fed, dampen both hay and grain. If 
stabled, keep in a cool, well aired stable. If the fol- 
lowing recipe is followed daily, it will be of much bene- 
fit in checking the cough, which greatly benefits the 
animal : 

Foenugreek two ounces. 

Gentian two ounces. 

Ginger two ounces. 

Tartar Emetic tvro ounces. 

Spanish Brown two ounces. 

Sulphate of Morphia sixty grains. 

Brown Sugar four ounces. Mix. 

Give a tablespoonful three times a day until the dis- 
ease is checked ; then give a spoonful once a day or 
every other day. Always give the medicine in soft 
food ; or give two ounce doses of raw linseed oil twice 
daily, to keep the bowels loose. 



LYMPHANGITIS, INFLAMMATION OF THE LYMPHATICS. 

This is a constitutional disease and most frequently 
occurs in fleshy, heavy-legged horses. It is caused by 
heavy feeding and want of proper exercise. Hence it 
is generally seen on Monday morning. The heavy 
truck horses are worked all week and highly fed, and 



78 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

on Sunday tliey receive their usual amount of food. Aa 
the system is not working enough to carry oif the waste 
material, tjie lymphatic glands become gorged and in- 
flammation is the result. 

Symptoms : — If seen at first, there will be noticed a 
chill, with fever rising immediately afterward ; pulse 
ranging from forty to seventy, hard and cord-like under 
the fingers ; the horse is lame, either in the fore or hind 
leg, most freqently the latter; if the lameness is in the 
fore leg, press upon the inside of the fore leg, in the 
brachial region, close up to the breast, and the horse 
will evince great pain; if in the hind leg, press in the 
inguinal region, close up in the groin, and from 
there to near the stifle, and the horse will be so pained 
that he will raise his leg sideways, so high that he will 
almost fall over. The bowels become constipated and 
the urine scanty. The symptoms usually increase for 
twenty-four to thirty-six hours, then commence to 
abate. Occasionally, the lymphatic glands, high up on 
the inside of the leg, suppurate and pyaemia supervenes 
and proves fatal. In severe cases, the skin remains 
hard, with a fibrous growth, which is known by the 
name of elephantiasis, or big leg. 

Treatment : — If the case is a mild one, exercise mod- 
erately and apply hot fomentations to the parts 
affected. A recovery may be expected in two days. If 
the case is very severe, give immediately, or as soon as 
possible, 

Barbadoes Aloes one ounce. 

Ginger two drachms. Mix. 

Give in half a pint of water at one dose. Then ap- 
ply fomentations of hot water and vinegar to the 
affected parts for twenty minutes, every two or three 
hours; after fomenting, wipe dry with a flannel cloth. 



STOMATITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE MOUTH. 79 

As soon as the physic has operated, give two or three 

times a day, the following : 

Powd. Potass. Nit one ounce. ' 

Bi-Carbonate Soda one ounce. 

Resin one ounce. Mix. 

Make into twelve powders. As soon as the horse can 
walk with any comfort, take him out and exercise mod- 
erately. Should there be any swelling left in the groin 
or brachial region, apply tincture of iodine every day 
for a week ; then cease for a few days and then repeat. 
Should there be a tendency to "big leg" (which fre- 
quently follows this disease), use the iodine freely and 
give the following : 

Iodide of Potassium two ounces. 

Nux Vomica one ounce. 

Powd. Sulph. Iron one ounce. 

ike into fifteen powders and give one powder at 
each meal. If that should fail, use a good blister along 
the lymphatic chain. 



STOMATITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE MOUTH. 

This disease has various causes, such as stings of in- 
sects, snake-bites, injuries from the bit, injuries from 
pulling ropes through the mouth, giving medicines not 
thoroughly diluted, decayed or irregular teeth, etc. 

Symptoms : — Swelling and redness of the mucous 
membrane lining the mouth ; often small blisters will 
form in the mouth, allowing a discharge of serum, then 
look raw with ragged edges; sometimes several of these 
coalesce, forming a large sore; difficulty in swallowing; 
slavering; often a foetid saliva dropping from the 
mouth. 



80 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Treatment : — If the cause is apparent, remove it ; if 
from any corrosive agent, wash the mouth with almond 
oil, sweet oil, or dilute glycerine. If the teeth are out 
of condition, attend to them at Once. If the mouth is 
very sore, use a paste made of glycerine and prepared 
chalk and gum arable; apply to the sores several times 
a day ; or if ulcers are present, use a solution of chlorate 
of potash or alum, one ounce, to a pint of water. Wash 
the mouth three times a day with an ounce of the mix- 
ture. If the ulcers are very deep and not inclined to heal, 
mix thirty grains of nitrate of silver with an ounce of 
water and touch the sores with it every other day. 
Feed on soft food and give a saline cathartic, as, 

Glauber Salts ten ounces. 

Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a quart of water. Also give 
drachm doses of nitrate of potassium, three times a day. 



TONGUE INJURIES. 



The tongue is a very important organ to the horse, 
for without its assistance, the act of eating and drinking 
is performed with great difficulty. The tongue is sub- 
jected to many injuries, as being pulled out forcibly to 
one side of tlie mouth by ignorant persons, while 
administering medicines or dressing the teeth ; by being 
cut while rubbing against sharp edges of the back 
teeth, or against split teeth ; by being torn with bit and 
halter chains. By falling and striking on the chin, the 
tongue may be badly bitten and it may also be injured 
by the l)reaking of a thin glass bottle in the mouth or 
by a bottle with a sharp or broken edge, used in 
drenching. 



• LAMPAS, OR SWELLED GUMS. 81 

Treatment: — Injuries to the tongue heal very qnickly 
when the cause is removed. If the wound is caused by 
sliarp edges of the teeth, dress them off with a file. If 
from other sources, and the injury is not sufficient to 
amputate the parts, dress the wound with the following : 

Borax half ounce. 

Powd. Alum ". . half ounce. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Apply to the sore three or four times daily. Before 
amputation is resorted to (which should be done by a 
veterinary surgeon) satisfy yourself that the parts will 
not heal or will cause great inconvenience, for it must 
be remembered that the tongue may be almost cut or 
torn oft', yet it wall heal and be of great service. If 
early seen, a wound may be stitched together with good 
results. Feed on soft, sloppy diet, and do not give hay 
or grain, unless it has been boiled sufficiently to 
soften it. 



LAMPAS, OR SWELLED GUMS. 

This is a red or swollen state of the upper gum and 
may be called properly dentition fever. It usually is seen 
in colts from one to five years old, and is caused princi- 
j'ally from teetliing; but may occur at any age from 

indigestion. 

Treatment: — If in an old horse, give at one dose the 
following physic : 

Aloes one ounce. 

Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Afterward give a vegetable tonic to improve the 
digestion. If in a colt, scarify the gums, — but do not 
go back of tlie second crease in the mouth. Feed corn 
on the ear and give. 



82 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



Nitrate of Potassium one ounce. 

Chlorate of Potassium one ounce. 

Bi-Carbonate of Soda two ounces. Mix. 

Make into sixteen powders and give one powder at 
each meal in the drinking water. If the bowels are 
costive, give a physic, — as one pint of castor or raw lin- 
seed oil. 



ENTERITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 

Causes: — Drinking ice-cold water, standing in drafts, 
giving too powerful cathartics; feeding new oats, new 
corn, or musty grain or hay; heavy fatiguing work, 
indigestion; spasmodic colic, when not properly 
attended to. 




IXFLAJrjrATIOX OF TDK I50WlvLS. 

Symptoms : — The symptoms very much resemble 
spasmodic colic; the animal will paw and lie down, — 
very carefully at first; as the disease advances, he will 
lie down and get up frequently, roll upon his back, lie 
for a short time in that position, then begin; tumbling 
around. The pains are very severe, and continuous; 
wiiereas, in spasmodic colic there are frequent intermis- 
sions. The membranes of the nose, mouth and eyes are 



ENTERITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 



83 



congested and reddened, the mouth is liot and dry, res- 
pirations are increased, with a desire to drink small 
amounts of water. The legs and ears get cold. The 
pulse at first full and fast — ranging from sixty to 
seventy, very soon becomes smaller and weaker. Cold 
sweats break out on the body ; an anxious expression 
of countenance appears ; glassy, staring eyes ; upon 

1 




INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 

applying pressure to the abdomen the animal will evince 
pain. The bowels are generally costive but occasionally 
pass small pellets of dung generally glazed with mucous 
or streaked with blood ; but if occasioned by irritant 
food or medicine, purging and bloating may be present. 
Treatment: — If the patient is seen during the early 
stage, bleeding from the jugular vein, until an impres- 
sion is made on the pulse, will often give relief. Give 
immediately — 

Powd. Opium one drachm. 

Extract Belladonna one drachm. Mix. 

Apply hot fomentations to the abdomen. Rub the 
le^s with the folJowinii- : 



84 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Alcohol four ounces. 

Ext. Witch Hazel six ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. Mix. 

Apply bandages and if the pain continues, give 
drachm doses of powdered opium every thirty or forty 
minutes, until it ceases. Then apply the foregoing lini- 
ment to the abdomen and keep the patient well 
blanketed. Keep the bowels quiet, it makes no differ- 
ence if they do not move for two or three days. Feed 
on light, soft food, as bran mash, linseed meal, etc. In 
the course of two or three days give sulphate of soda, 
eight ounces, and continue giving it morning and even- 
ing until the bowels move. Give walking exercise, and 
occasionally warm injections to assist in moving the 
bowels. 



MUCO-ENTERITIS. 



This is inflammation of the lining membrane of the 
bowels. It is seen quite frequently in this country, 
though usually confined to localities where there is poor 
drainage and the hay and corn-fodder become musty ; 
also where the stabling is poor and the horses are 
exposed to the inclement weather. Other causes are 
giving brisk cathartics, drinking impure or stagnant 
water, etc. 

Symptoms : — The first symptom noticed, generally, is 
a staring coat ; others are dullness, loss of appetite, and 
fever ; sometimes pawing and lying down ; tenderness of 
the abdominal region. The animal looks gaunt ; abdo- 
men is drawn up. Sometimes there is diarrhoea but 
more frequently constipation. Quite large balls of 
manure are passed, coated with mucous, sometimes 
very stringy like alarge bundle of worms. 



SUPERPURGATION. 85 

Treatment : — When first noticed, give one quart of 
castor or linseed oil and change the diet immediately, 
give a gruel made from linseed meal or slippery elm tea. 
After the physic has operated, give the following : 

Sulphate of soda one pound. 

Quinine four drachms. 

Nux Vomica one ounce. Mix. 

Make eight doses and give morning and evening. If 
diarrhoea sets in spontaneously, let it go twenty-four 
hours unchecked, as it is frequently beneficial. If the 
animal is sutfering much pain, give ounce doses of 
laudanum until relieved ; then immediately cease giving 
opiates and give more caetor or linseed oil to move the 
bowels. 



SUPERPURGATION. 



This term is used to designate a diarrhoea or flux 
from the bowels, which is superinduced by and follows 
the administration of a physic. There is always con- 
siderable irritation of the bowels, and not infrequently 
inflammation supervenes, which latter symptom should 
always be looked upon with suspicion, as it is quite 
dangerous. The disorder is caused by giving too large 
doses of physic or by administering physic to horses 
suffering from debilitating diseases, as influenza, stran- 
gles, pneumonia, etc. ; by driving horses some distance 
while purging, or by giving large quantities of cold 
water while a physic is operating. - Great care and 
judgment should be exercised in giving physic to 
horses while suffering from diseases of the throat and 
chest. Before giving a physic, the animal should be 
prepared by giving two or three warm, soft bran 
mashes ; immediately follow with the physic and after 



8G DISEASES UE THE HORSE. 

it begins to operate, clothe the body and keep it warm, 
give small quantities of water slightly warmed and 
allow perfect rest until the purging ceases. After the 
horse has purged for twenty-four hours, the frequent 
evacuations may usually be stopped by feeding dry hay 
and oats, but should the purging still continue, give flour 
and water, or four ounces of brandy in a quart of milk 
to which add four eggs ; repeat if necessary, five or six 
times a day and if this does not check it, use the 
following : 

Tincture Catechu four ounces. 

Laudanum four ounces. 

Tincture Ginger four ounces. Mix. 

Give three ounces in half pint of water every three 
hours ; restrict the drinking water and feed upon good 
hay and oats. If this manner of feeding constipates, 
give a pint of raw linseed oil, afterwards. 



CONSTIPATION. 



This is a condition of the bowels, where the fecal 
matter is abnormally retained, and when passed, is 
small in amount and hard in consistence. Constipation 
can hardly be considered a disease of itself but rather a 
symptom of a diseased condition, brought about by 
feeding upon bulky, innutritions, dry, fibrous food for a 
continuous length of time. The stomach and bowels 
become weakened, there is a dimunition in fiuid 
material from defective secretion, and the dry ingesta 
contained within the intestines, causes a partially para- 
lyzed condition of the muscular fibre of these, organs, 
with" loss of peristaltic action, which if not relieved, 
would bring on congestion or inflammation of the bowela. 



INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTIONS. 87 

Symptoms: — Among the first symptoms noticed, is a 
gradual falling off in flesh, coat staring, distended abdo- 
men or pot belly ; swelling of the limbs, which disap- 
pears upon exercise ; general lassitude and weakness, 
difficulty in passing manure, which is small, dry and hard 
and passed with much straining; appetite becomes im- 
paired ; pulse, small and weak, and a foul smell ema- 
nates from the mouth. In some instances there are 
colicky pains, but these are very rare. 

Treatment: — The first step in the treatment of 
constipation, is to remove the cause. Place good, soft, 
nutritious food within reach and avoid giving drastic 
cathartics. If bran mash will be eaten, throw in a 
liandful of sulphate of soda or sulphate of magnesia, 
once or twice a day. Groom well and give moderate 
exercise. If the ailment does not yield to this treat 
nient in a few days, give a quart of raw linseed oil at 
one dose. After the bowels have responded to the 
above interference with medicines, they are liable to 
drop back into a torpid condition, and to relieve this, 
use the following : 

Barbadoes Aloes two ounces. 

Asafoetida two ounces. 

Nux Vomica one ounce. Mix. 

Make eight powders. Give one powder morning and 
evening, for ten days, and allow all the water the ani- 
mal will drink. 



INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTIONS. 

Accumulation of stercoraceous material in the intes- 
tinal tube, is sometimes noticed in horses. It consists 
of concretions of various kinds adhering to the walls of 
the intestines, sometimes assuming immense propor- 
tions before any symptoms of intestinal trouble are 



88 



DLSEASES OF THK HOIlrfE. 



noticed. The position of these large concretions is in 
the large bowels, where they may remain for years, 
undisturbed, except perchance, the animal may have an 
attack of colic, and during the paroxysm of pain, while 
rolling and tumbling about, may displace the concre- 







SYMPTOM OF INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION. 

tions and they may then become lodged in some other 
part, when grave symptoms are observed. Under this 
head, will also be included such troubles as invagina- 
tion, where one bowel slips into another ; strangulation 
of an intestine by another rolled round it, tumors and 
abscesses formed within the bowel, etc. 

Symptoms : — When obstruction is complete, there will 
be severe colicky pains, without intervals, when free 
from pain, differing from inflammation of the bowels in 
that there is no rise of temperature at first. There may 
be slight diarrhoea, at first, which soon disappears, as 
only that manure will pass which is behind the obstruc- 
tion. Frequently, the horse will sit upon its haunches, 



DIARKHCEA. 80 

or if standing, press its haunches against the wall. Consti- 
pation or irregularities of the bowels, with occasional at- 
tacks of colic, indicate intestinal concretions, and obstruc- 
tion from accumulations of material, of whatever sort. 

Treatment: — Whenever obstrution of the intestines 
is observed from the forgoing symptoms, make an 
examination through the rectum, or last bowel; grease 
the hand and arm thoroughly, then pass it carefully, 
and if you can reach the obstruction, try to remove it. 
It is not advisable to give any physic in such cases. On 
the contrary, give medicines to relieve pain, and trust 
the rest to nature. If the animal will eat anything, 
give only soft, nutritious food, in limited quantities. 
To relieve the pain, use the following: 

Chloral Hydrate two ounces. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Give two ounces every hour, in a pint of water until 
relief, or. 

Laudanum four ounces. 

Tincture Belladonna two ounces. 

Sulphuric Ether two ounces. Mix. 

Give one and one-half ounces every hour in a pint 
of water until relief. If the pain is severe and bloating 
is observed, tapping the bowel with a trocar, and allow- 
ing the gas to escape, will give temporary relief. If 
invagination has taken place, the bowel may grow 
together and that position invaginated, slough off and 
pass away with the manure. 



DIARRHOEA. 



This disease is quite frequently met with among 
horses. 

Causes: — Giving too heavy cathartics, drinking im- 
pure water, eating tender, green grass in the spring ; 



90 . DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

indigestion, drinking ice-cold water, over-driving and 
watering while heated, exposure to cold rains; any irri- 
tant within the bowels; eating mouldy or musty food, 
diseased condition of the teeth, pasturing on low 
marshy ground, exposure during cold nights, low damp 
stables, etc. 

Symptoms : — There may be a soft discharge from the 
bowels, Avhich may be completely overlooked for a con- 
siderable length of time because the animal retains its 
appetite; it may terminate in complete recovery. But 
in the more severe cases, a watery discharge comes 
flooding from the bowels, with loss of appetite, staring 
coat, paleness of the mucous membranes, sunken eyes, 
unsteady or staggering gait, rapid breathing, small, 
weak and rapid pulse, rumbling of the bowels, — if the 
ear is applied to the side a rumbling or churning sound 
is heard. 

Treatment : — If the discharge is slight, give a pint of 
castor oil, which will generally eflect a cure. But in 
the more aggravated form, give a pint and a half of cas- 
tor or linseed oil and one ounce of laudanum. Change 
the diet to good, nutritious food. If the purging con- 
tinues, give wheat flour in water, starch water or white 
oak bark tea. If there is much bloating accompanying 
the diarrhoea, give a tablespoonful of baking soda three 
times a day, or give every four hours, two tablespoon- 
fuls of the following : 

Prepared Ohalk four ounces. 

Powdered Catechu one ounce. 

Powdered Cinchona one ounce. 

Powdered Gentian two ounces. Mix. 

Allow a horse to stand for a few days before putting 
to work, as a second attack is worse than the first. 



DYSENTERY. Ul 

DYSENTERY. 

This is an ag<2:ravated form of diarrhoea, tending to 
inflammation of the bo^vels. The causes are like those 
of diarrh(pa, — such as feeding musty hay, drinking im- 
pure water, strong purgatives, exposure to cold rains ; 
by being crowded in low, damp, dark stables ; by graz- 
ing for a long time on low, wet, marshy pastures. 

Symptoms: — Excessive watery discharge from the 
bowels, which has an offensive odor; the discharge is 
frequently streaked with blood and passed with consid- 
erable straining; shreds of mucous membrane and 
blood are passed; the horse lies down a great deal; the 
appetite remains fair, and there is an unusual desire for 
drir' "ng water; the abdomen is tucked-up and very 
tender ; staring coat ; sunken eyes ; the animal soon be- 
comes very weak; dejected appearance, generally. 

Treatment: — First place the animal in a dry, warm, 
well-ventilated stall ; brush and rub the skin thoroughly 
two or three times a day ; blanket well and bandage the 
legs; give good, pure water in small quantities and give 
at first, 

Castor Oil ten ounces. 

' Laudanum two ounces. Mix. 

Give at one dose ; also. 

Milk one quart. 

Whiskey four ounces. 

To which add four eggs. 

(live three times a day. Give the patient soft and 
easily digested food, as linseed meal gruel, slippery elm 
gruel, etc. Administer the following: 

Powd. Opium one-half ounce. 

Powd. Catechu one ounce. 

Powd. Kino one ounce. 

Prepared Chalk four ounces. Mix. 



95 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Make six doses and every four or five hours give one 
in n little sweet milk. Rub the abdomen with a can- 
tharides liniment, or take mustard, mix with vinegar to 
form a paste, and apply to the abdomen. As the bowels 
begin to act better and are more regular and more 
nearly normal in tlieir discharges, give, 

Dover's Powder one ounce. 

Quinine four drachms. Mix. 

Make eight powders and give one powder at each 
meal. Bandage the legs and rub them with dilute alco- 
hol ; also keep the animal well blanketed and warm. 



GASTRITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH. 

Inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the 
stomach, is rarely seen as an independent affection and 
is probably only seen as the result of irritation from 
imi>actiou of the stomach, from over-feeding or over- 
eating when fatigued, getting loose in the stable and 
having access to the grain bin, from foreign substances 




SVMPTO.AIS OF IXFLA:inrATION OF THE STOJMACH. 

given in the food, the administration of powerful and 
irritating drugs without being sufficiently diluted with 
water or oil, by givii^g an over-dose of arsenic and by 
poisoning with lead. If horses are around newiy- 
painted buildings or w^here paint kegs have been thrown 
away, they will sometimes lick and eat a sufficient 
quantity to produce gastritis, and not infrequently it 



GASTRITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH. 93 

results from drinking water which runs through new 
lead pipes. 

Symptoms: — When occurring from inpactiou and 
OYer-eating, colicky pains of a continuous character are 
usually observed. There is rapid breathing with a hard, 
wiry pulse, turning of the head around pointing to the 
stomach, and sometimes sweating along the neck, shoul- 
ders and sides. The desire for drinking water is some- 
what intense and a turning up of the upper lip is some- 
times observed. When arsenic is the cause of inflamma- 
tion of the stomach, there will be loss of appetite with 
nausea and attempts to vomit, a desire for water and a 
frothy saliva in the mouth. Abdominal pain is present, 
a rumbling in the bowels is heard and sometimes 
diarrhoea supervenes with heavy straining. The manure 
that is passed has a very ofl'ensive odor, sweat bedews 
the body, while the limbs are cold. The breathing is 
short and rapid, the pulse soon becomes very feeble and 
in a short time cannot be detected. Following the 
symptoms very closely, will be paralysis of the hind 
extremities and death. If the inflammation is caused 
by lead poison, colicky pains will be observed, with 
labored breathing, staggering gait, general paralysis, 
convulsions and death. If there is chronic poisoning by 
lead, there will be an unthrifty appearance, diminution 
of appetite, a blue line extending around the margin of 
the gums, pufl^y swellings beneath the jaws, constipa- 
tion, and a rough, staring condition of the hair. Abor- 
tion frequently occurs during chronic lead poisoning. 

Treatment: — When we observe a case of inflammation 
of the stomach, arising from any cause, it is well to bear 
in mind that by reasons of the structures involved, its 
course is very rapid and also very fatal, although I 
believe there are more recoveries from this affection 



94 DISEASES OF THE IlOrvSE. 

than from inflammation of the l)owels. Soothing reme- 
dies should be given as quickly as possible and the 
stomach held in a state of repose. For this purpose 
give flaxseed tea, slippery elm tea, thoroughly boiled 
oat meal gruel, etc., to which should be added as soon 
as can be obtained, 

Powd. or Gum Opium one ounce. 

Soft Water one quart. Mix. 

Place over the fire and simmer down to one pint, 
then give two ounces every two or three hours. Hot 
applications along the abdomen just under the stomach, 
are attended with beneficial results. For this purpose 
blankets wrung out of hot water and held in that posi- 
tion for a few hours, is a good method, changing every 
few minutes to maintain the heat. After ceasing the 
hot applications, a mustard draft should be applied 
around the region of the stomach. When the severe 
symptoms have subsided and the patient appears some- 
what improved, administer a pint of raw linseed oil, 
which will assist in unloading the stomach of retained 
j-.iaterial and possibly the olfending agent. When the 
ollending agent is arsenic, give half dozen raw eggs 
well-beaten up with milk, raw linseed oil or linseed 
gruel every half hour for a few hours, or the adminis- 
tration of powdered charcoal, will be attended with 
beneficial results ; or if obtainable, give two -ounce 
doses every ten minutes for an hour, of freshly prepared 
hydrated peroxide of iron. This is really the best anti- 
dote for arsenical poisoning. If the inflammation is 
caused from lead poison or any other of the irritant 
lioisons, treat as above recommended, with milk, eggs, 
oil, linseed or slippery elm tea, etc., omitting the prep- 
aration of iron. But constantly bear in mind that the 
stomach should receive soothing remedies, as the linseed 
gruel, etc., for a continued length of time. After 



GORGED STOMACH — STOMACH STAGGBTIS, ETC. 



95 



recovery has taken place, feed only upon boiled food 
and in limited quantities, for a few months, or if in the 
proper season, turn out to grass. 



GORGED STOMACH— STOMACH STAGGERS— INDIGBSTION. 

This derangement of the stomach is caused by team- 
sters feeding their horses a large feed after a heavy 
day's work. The animal being very hungry, eats rap- 
idly ; the food is not well masticated, and going into a 
stomach somewhat weakened by the day's work, is una- 
])U' to digest it and indigestion is the result. It may 




SYMPTOMS or RUPTUKE OF THE STOIFACH. 

also arise from eating damaged wheat, dried ripe 
vetches, and from eating rapidly of bulky food after 
fasting, etc. - When we consider the small capacity of 
the stomach of a horse, holding only about, three gal- 
lons, we need not be surprised to see indigestion, for 



96 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

when the stomach becomes gorged, it has scarcely any 
other exit except to pass on, as it is very seldom that 
the horse vomits. 

Symptoms: — Tliese are generally sudden, but not al- 
ways. The animal may step back from the manger and 
lie down, apparently resting. Suddenly, it will rise and 
stand for a while, without eating; then lie down again 
for a time. Soon it arises and becomes more restless by 
pawing with its fore-feet and lying dowm upon its 
breast, rolling over to its side, then upon its breast 
again and trying to vomit, at which it may make fre- 
quent attempts, and sometimes a sour smelling liquid 
discharge w^ll come from the nostrils. There are fre- 
.quent eructations, or belching up of gas from the stom- 
ach. The animal may tremble considerably, and cold 
sweats bedew the body, A thick slobber may be seen 
around the mouth. The bowels are usually costive, but 
sometimes a slight diarrh«a is present. The pulse and 
resj)iration are both increased. If vomiting does actu- 
ally occur, it generally presages rupture of the stonuicli ; 
at this stage the horse may sit upon its haunches, which 
is a dangerous symptom, and an unfavorable termina- 
tion may be anticipated. 

Treatment : — When first noticed, give a heavy physic. 
As the stomach is distended with both food and gas, its 
action must be aroused to throw oft' its contents. The 
following will suffice very well : 

Powd. Barbadoes Aloes one ounce. 

Calomel one drachm. 

Gentian three drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose. If the pain increases, give ounce 
doses of sulphuric ether in lialf pint of water every hour, 
until four doses are given. Or, aromatic spirits of 
ammonia, one ounce every two hours until three or four 



HEMIPLEGIA — PARALYSIS. 97 

doses have been given. Blankets wrung out of hot 
water and applied to the stomach and bowels, often give 
relief. If the former physic is not convenient, give a 
quart of raw linseed oil or a quart of melted hogs' lard, 
as the stomach must be unloaded before permanent 
relief is to be obtained. Injections of castile soap and 
hot water are beneficial. A moderate amount of walk- 
ing exercise, will also be of benefit. After relief has 
been obtained, feed en easily digested food, for a few 
days; also give tlie following, as much benefit will be 
derived therefrom : 

Fowd. Barbadoes Aloes ... one ounce. 

Assafoetida one ounce. 

Gentian one ounce. Mix. 

Make eight powders. Give one powder each day, 
until all are given. 



HEMIPLEGIA— PARALYSIS. 

This form of paralysis is not frequently seen among 
horses. It is usually the result of some brain trouble, as 
tuQiors in the lateral ventricles, pressure upon the l)rain 
from fracture of the skull, softening of the brain from 
poison in the blood, inflammation of the brain from 
emboli obstructing the blood-flow througli the brain, etc. 

Symptoms: — The attack may be sudden, with complete 
loss of motion of one side of the body, the animal fall- 
ing down and being unable to rise. Again, the standing 
position is retained, but movements are made with 
great difiiculty. The lips on one side will hang pendu- 
lous, the tongue protrude from one side of the mouth 
and there is difficulty in swallowing food or water. Tlie 
urine may pass away involuntarily. 



98 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Treatment: — The treatment of paralysis is very unsat- 
isfactory and flattering results must not be anticipated. 
If due to an inflamed condition of the brain, bleeding 
will be proper. Carefully regulate the bowels by feed- 
ing soft food, in which may be given four to six ounce 
doses of sulphate of soda or epsom salts, until the 
bowels are regulated. Hand rubbing of the affected 
limbs and a strong liniment applied along the spine, 
may assist in restoration to health. The following will 
suflice : 

Raw Linseed Oil six ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia three ounces. 

Oil of Turpentine three ounces. Mix. 

Apply until blisters are raised. 



JAUNDICE, ICTERUS, OR YELLOWS. 

Jaundice is caused by suppression or re-absorption of 
bile and is more of a symptom than a disease. Any 
cause which tends to disturb the functions or tissue of 
the liver, as disturbed circulation from congestion or 
inflammation, deposits or growths, pressing upon the bile 
duct, catarrh of the bile duct, gall stones, or impurities 
in the blood from specific fever, etc. 

Symptoms: — The first that is generally noticed, is the 
yellowness of the eyes and membranes of the nostrils 
and mouth, instead of the pale pink, as is observed in 
health. The tongue will be coated and an offensive 
smell emanates from the mouth. The bowels are some- 
what constipated, the dung is dry, of a light color and 
has an offensive smell. When there is no fever present, 
the appetite will remain very good and the pulse 
will be but little affected. But when fever is 
present, the animal will appear drowsy, with loss of 



CONGESTION OF THE LIVER. 99 

appetite, and seems greatly exhausted with moderate 
work, in fact the animal acts as if it wished to be left 
alone and does not care to move. Occasionally a dry 
itching, scurfy state of the skin is observed. 

Treatment: — First discover the cause, if possible, then 
remove it. If from congestion, endeavor as quickly as 
possil)le to unload the liver, by giving such remedies as 
will have a direct action, as, 

Barbadoes Aloes one ounce. 

Calomel one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose. The ol)ject is to rid the system of 
the excessive amount of bile and it is l>est accomplislied 
in this way. When fever is i^resent, avoid giving such 
brisk physic and endeavor to move the bowels by giving, 

Sulj^hate of Soda -ix ounces. 

Water one ([uart. 

Or linseed oil, one pint daily, until the bowels are 
loose. If there is an acid condition of the stomach, as 
evidenced by eating dirt or licking the walls, give two 
to four ounces of lime water, twice a day. If the 
patient is weak and slow of recovery, give nitro-muri- 
atic acid, one drachm, morning and evening, well 
dilnted in driidcing Avater, and feed light, easily digested 
food, as bran masli, ground flaxseed, etc. 



CONGESTION OF THE LIVER. 

Tliis disease is more prevalent during hot weather 
than at any other season, and is also seen in low, damp, 
malarial districts. It is caused from over-exertion, 
after eating a rich, hearty meal; sudden chills following 
specilic fevers ; faulty digestion, especially when rich 
food is given, without exercise; changes from a cold to 
a warm, damp region ; chills in cold, damp nights after 
hot days, etc. 



100 DISEASES OE THE HORSE. 

Symptoms: — The animal will appear dull and disin- 
clined to move. An unnatural appetite is evidenced by 
the desire to eat dirt or lick at the walls of the stable. 
The appetite for food becomes impaired. The bowels 
are costive, and what does 'pass, is hard, scanty, of a 
light color and smells offensive. The mucous mem- 
branes of the nostrils and mouth assume a yellowish 
tint, as is also seen around the eyes. Frequently an 
offensive , odor is observed around the mouth. The 
pulse is usually full and soft and the breathing but lit- 
tle affected. Pressure behind the right shoulder, fre- 
quentl}^ produces pain and sometimes there is lameness 
in the same shoulder. 

Treatment: — Bleeding is frequently attended with 
good results, providing the pulse is full and distinct. 
The liver should be emptied as quickly as possible, and 
for that purpose, use the following : 

Barbadoes Aloes seven draclnns. 

Calomel one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose, either in the form of a pill, or in a 
pint of water as a drench, to be followed up with 

Epsom Salts one i)ound. 

Bi-Carbonate of Soda four ounces. Mix. 

Make twenty powders. Give one powder, morning 
and evening, in bran mash, chopped feed, or as a 
drench. The diet should be light, soft food of easy di_ 
gestion and given in limited quantities. Cloths wrung 
out of hot water and applied along the right side, be- 
hind the fore-leg, are very beneficial, or good mustard 
poultices on the right side, over the region of the liver, 
will assist irreatlv in affordinir relief. 



HEPATITIS — INFLAMMATION OF TUB LIVER. 101 

HEPATITIS— INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. 

Although mankind is subject to many disorders of 
this gland, it may sound strange to say that diseases of 
the liver rarely attack the horse. Gall stones which 
accumulate in the gall sack in man, and cause so much 
trouble, are never seen in the horse for the very good 
reason that there is no gall-sack attached to the liver. 
They do, however, sometimes form in the liver itself. 
Inflammation of the liver may be either acute or 
chronic. The acute form is readily recognized, while 
the chronic form can seldom be detected during life by 
even a skillq^ veterinarian ; it is mainly guess work, and 
for this reason, it will be unnecessary to treat of the 
chronic form in a work of this kind. In the acute form 
there will be great dullness with more or less pain, but 
not of a severe type. The animal hangs its head but 
generally remains in a standing posture. The bowels 
are constipated and the dung balls are small and of a 
clayish color, being sometimes covered with a slimy 
mucous. The urine is scanty and dark colored. Pres- 
sure applied to the right side over the liver, causes pain, 
consequently if the animal lies down it will lie on the 
left side. Sometimes there is lameness in the right 
shoulder and after a few days' illness, the white of the 
eyes and tongue, turn a yellowish color. 

Causes : — The prevailing cause is feeding too great an 
amount of rich, stimulating food in hot weather without 
sutRcient exercise. Horses that are kept for family or 
pleasure driving, or the old family pet which has been 
pampered and highly fed in a warm stable, are the best 
subjects for these attacks, hence it is more often seen 
in the city than in the country. It is also caused by 
injuries, as blows or kicks on the right side ; from for- 
eign substances being swallowed, piercing the stomach 



102 DISEASES OF THE IIOKSE. 

and entering the liver, as needles, etc. It is also caused 
by the presence of worms in the liver ; by gall-stones 
forming therein and passing through the ducts to the 
bowels, SLud by inflammation of surrounding structures, 
which extends to and envelopes the liver. 

Treatment : — If detected in the earliest stage, abstract 
four or five quarts of blood from the jugular vein, but 
if this is not done early, refrain from blood-letting alto- 
gether. Then give a physic : 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Calomel one drachm. 

Ginger two drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of water; or, 

Epsom Salts one pound. 

Glauber Salts one pound. Mix. 

Dissolve in a gallon of water and give one quart 
every two hours. Apply hot cloths to the right side 
from the back of the girth to the last rib ; or apply 
mustard freely over the same space. Medicines that act 
upon the kidneys, should now be given. To reduce the 
fever, the following will answer admirably : 

Saltpeter six ounces. 

Powd. Nux Vomica one ounce. Mix. 

Make twelve powders. Give three powders daily. 
Change the habits of the animal by giving a limited 
supply of soft food, as boiled oats, liran mash, etc., and 
as the patient improves, give exercise accordingly, and 
see that it does not get into such a condition again 
through want of exercise and too high feeding. 



PARAPLEGIA— PARALYSIS OF THE HIND LIMBS. 

This form of paralysis affects both Jiind limbs and 
may result from tumors pressing upon the spinal cord, 
from parasites in the cord, from broken back or loins, 



PROLAPSUS ANI, OR EVERSION OF THE RECTUM. 103 

from softening of the cord, inflammation of the cord, 
from bony growths, the result of sprains, pressing 
upon the cord ; from over-feeding on certain herbs, 
seeds and grains, causing indigestion, etc. The treat- 
ment, for which see Hemiplegia, is very unsatisfactory. 



PROLAPSUS ANI, OR EVERSION OF THE RECTUM. 

Eversion of the last bowel, is generally seen as a 
secpiel of some other disease ; as occurring during the 
act of parturition or in parturient apoplexy, or follow- 
ing up certain cases of colic wdien they are somewhat 
protracted and accompanied with constipation, or in 
torpidity of the bowels, unaccompanied with any other 
disease, we will often observe protrusion of the last 
bowel, or rectum. In the majority of cases, it is ob- 
served in horses that are in poor condition and fed on 
dry, innutritions food, or young colts that have been 
kept upon dry pastures or food, after stabling upon 
dry food containing a super-abundance of woody fibre. 
When protrusion has taken place, the animal will not 
evince much pain, only when wanting to pass manure, 
which is generally very dry and hard; it will then 
evince pain and uneasiness, but after the faeces have 
passed, the uneasiness disappears, and the animal moves 
on as though nothing had happened. 

Treatment : — When the protruded bowel is not very 
extensive and has been observed before strangulation 
has taken place, it is quite easily reduced. Clean out 
the last bowel with the hand, which should first be well 
greased, tlien oil the protruded bowel and press it back 
into place by gentle manipulation, after which apply 
the following : 



104 DISEASES OF THE HOUSE. 

Powd. Opium one drachm. 

Tannic Acid one drachm. 

Vaseline one ounce. Mix. 

Insert enough in the rectum, morning and evening, 
to cover the protruded part. Place the animal on soft, 
nutritious diet and give mild laxatives to keep the 
bowels soft, as, 

Sulphate of Soda two ounces. 

Epsom Salts two ounces. Mix, 

Give morning and evening into feed or as a drench. 
Should the protrusion become strangulated and swollen, 
scarify with the knife, grease or oil well, and return 
carefully as it is possible to do under the circumstances. 
Sometimes it is necessary to place a truss or bandage 
around the anus, to keep the bowel in place, but if 
watched carefully, and whenever it protrudes slightly, 
returned with the hand, continuing so to do until the 
bowels become regulated, favorable results may be 
looked for without any further treatment. 



SALIVATION OR SLOBBERS. 

This consists in an excessive flow of saliva, and is 
more frequently a •symptom of some other trouble than 
a disease of itself. It is often seen in connection 
with irregular teeth, injuries to the tongue, from indis- 
criminate use of lobelia, mercury, colchicum, wild 
mustard, etc. Second crop of clover is one of the great 
causes of slobbering ; foreign substances becoming 
lodged between the teeth, as parts of wood, nails, corn- 
cobs, etc. 

Symptoms : — Fever and persistent discharge of saliva, 
or frothy masses hanging from the mouth ; frequent 



GLOSSITIS, OR INFLAMJIATION OF THE TONGUE. 105 

attempts at swallowing, great desire for water, and dis- 
turlied digestion, causing colic. 

Treatment : — First discover the cause, then remove it 
if possible. If from eating some obnoxious herbs or 
plants, or from eating second crop clover hay, remove 
from such pastures, or if in stable, change food ; examine 
the mouth carefully, in corn districts, as sometimes 
corn cobs become fastened between the teeth, causing 
considerable trouble. If from irregular teeth, file otl' 
the sharp edges. If from injuries to the tongue or 
small fistules in the mouth, wash the mouth with, 

Alum one ounce. 

Chlorate of Potash one ounce. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Gargle the mouth two or three times a day ; if some- 
what persistent, paint the glands below the ears, once 
daily witli tincture iodine and give one drachm of 
iodide of potash, morning and evening. 



GLOSSITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE TONGUE. 

It is very seldom we encounter inflammation of the 
tongue, separate from injuries or administration of 
drugs not properly diluted, but when glossitis does 
exist as an independent affection, the tongue will 
become swollen and painful and look liard and black. 
Difficulty in swallowing is a prominent symptom, with 
a tenacious saliva adhering to the tongue, that has a 
disagreeable smell. 

Treatment: — From the inability or difficulty in sAval- 
lowing, it is out of the question to treat internally, 
wliich if we could, would be of much benefit, as with 
laxatives, fever powders, etc. But as we cannot do 
this, our attention must be directed locally. Scarify 



100 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

the tongue with the knife, and bathe with warm water 
to encourage bleeding; or steam the mouth with the 
ordinary nose-bag. Also wash the mouth with. 

Borax half ounce. 

Chlorate of Potassium half ounce. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Bathe the tongue three or four times a day. If the 
swelling does not extend backward and involve the tex- 
tures of the throat, within two or three days, a speedy 
recovery may be looked for. If there is a desire to eat 
and the animal can swallow some, give flaxseed gruel 
or soft bran mash. 



PURPURA HAEMORRrlAGIA. 

This affliction usually occurs as a sequel of some lin- 
gering or debilitating disease, as distemper, influenza, 
epizootic catarrh, lung troubles, etc., or it may originate 
spontaneously, not as the result of some prior disease, 
but from badly ventilated stables, where animals are 
compelled to breathe vitiated atmosphere arising from 
decomposed urine and manure ; also in poorly fed 
horses, and such that are subjected to exhausting work, 
being placed in cold stables when perspiring freely, 
without blankets; exposure to cold rains and wind 
storms, when perspiring freely. It is more frequently 
seen in cold than in warm climates, and is very seldom 
seen when kept in well ventilated, warm, comfortable, 
clean stables, even as the result of a debilitating disease. 

Symptoms : — Although it is a non-inflammatory dis- 
ease, the lirst symptoms observed, are swellings appear- 
ing very suddenly on any part of the body, head or 
neck, only to disappear and re-appear upon some other 
part. These swellings are hard, painful and pit slightly 



PURPURA H.flMORRHAGlA. J 07 

upon pressure. In some cases, these swellings app: ar 
around the head, eyes, nostrils, mouth and throat to an 
alarming extent, causing great difficulty in lireathing 
and eating. Sometimes one or more of the limbs will 
swell considerably, the SAvelling being very uniform and 
ending abruptly as though a cord had been tied around 
it. Small vesicles aytpear, sometimes around the hocks 
and fetlock joints; these burst and discharge an amber 
colored liquid, which scalds the hair off wherever it 
flows. Whenever the skin breaks over a swollen part, 
it leaves an ugly, unhealthy sore with a great ten- 
dency to sloughing. The pulse is weak and often 
double. The bowels are usually constipated but easily 
excited by purgatives, and blood streaks are often 
mixed with the manure. Small spots of a purple color 
are observed in the nostrils ; these spots often slough 
and leave a raw, unhealthy looking sore, which dis- 
charges a dark colored licjuid, frequently stained with 
blood. The urine is high colored and has a strong am- 
moniacal smell and quickly undergoes decomposition. 
Sometimes these swellings take place within the in- 
ternal organs and to such an extent as to cause death 
from internal bleeding. 

Treatment: — First and above all things, attempt to 
remove the exciting cause ; if from badly-drained, ill- 
ventilated stabling, remove to a well- ventilated, warm, 
comfortable place, as pure air, light and warmth are 
very necessary. If constipation is observed, the bowels 
should be regulated but do not give a severe physic. 
The following will suffice : 

Raw Linseed Oil one pint. 

Tine. Terchloride of Iron, iive drachms. 
Spts. Turpentine ne ounce. Mix. 

Give at one dose, to be followed up with, 



108 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Chlorate of Potassium. . . .four ounces. 

Nitrate of Potassium one ounce. Mix. 

Make nine powders. Give three powders each day 
in soft food, drinking water or as a drench. Continue 
giving the above prescription for ten days to two weeks 
but diminish slightly in the dose. In the course of a 
few days, get the following: 

Sulphate of Iron one ounce. 

Dilute Sulphuric Acid one ounce. 

Water six ounces. Mix. 

Give half ounce well diluted in water, twice daily, 
alternated with the potassium powders. If the swell- 
ings do not yield to this treatment in the course of a 
week, omit the last prescription and give. 

Raw Linseed Oil twelve ounces. 

Spts. Turpentine four ounces. Mix. 

Give two ounces twice daily, alternated with the 
potassium powders. If there is much debility and loss 
of strength, give two to four ounces of whisky, two or 
three times a day or spirits nitrous ether one and one-half 
ounces, three times a day. For the treatment of the 
local swellings, do not scarify much, but if necessary to 
assist in breathing or eating, scarify around the head 
and throat. The swellings around the head and throat 
may be bathed with hot water, to which may be added 
tincture muriate of iron or carbolic acid. Do not 
disturb the swellings on the other parts of the body or 
limbs, as the less they are interfered witli, the better. 
Feed anything the patient will eat and give plenty of 
pure, fresh water. 



DYSPEPSIA. 



Dyspepsia is sometimes seen in horses that have been 
highly fed for a continued length of time, without 



DYSPEPSIA. 109 

proper exercise, and being stabled continuously and not 
allowed the privilege of a run at pasture. 

S3Tnptoms: — The animal will present an unthrifty 
appearance, the hair will look rough and the animal 
will loose flesh, growing very thin and hide-bound. 
The manure has a disagreeable smell, is quite hard and 
yellow in color. There is partial loss of appetite, al- 
though at times there is apparently great hunger, which 
is appeased by a few mouthfuls devoured in a greedy 
manner. The animal does not appear to relish its food 
and is generally spoken of as being "off its feed." 

Treatment : — First clear the bowels of what material 
they contain, by giving a physic, as, raw linseed oil, 
one quart. After a free evacuation of the bowels, give 
a good tonic, as, 

Red Pepper two ounces. 

Gentian three ounces. 

Sulphate of Iron two ounces. 

Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Saltpeter three ounces. 

Bi-Carbonate of Soda four ounces. Mix. 

Give a teaspoonful three times a day in soft food ; 
if the horse will not eat it, take a teaspoonful of the 
pOM^der and put it into a pint of water, heat it up, mak- 
ing a regular tea of it, and administer three times 
a day. Give a complete change of food, as boiled oats 
or barley and bran mash, also give roots, as carrots, 
turnips, mangels, etc. If during the season of green 
grass, turn out to pasture for a few^ months. Always 
examine the teeth thoroughly, and if any trouble exists, 
ir should be attended to before any other treatment is 
given. 



110 DISEASES OE THE HOKSE. 

INTUSSUSCEPTION AND GUT-TIE. 

The slipping of one portion of a bowel into another 
like the turning of the finger of a glove i^artly wrong 
side out, sometimes occurs, and is most frequently seen 
in the small intestines, although it may also take place 
in the large guts. The part that slips in, may extend 
but a few inches and again a number of feet. This 
accident is most likely to happen in horses that are suf- 
fering from pains or spasms of the bowels, as spasmodic 
or tlatulent colic, inflammation of the bowels, diarrh(pa, 
dysentery, or anything that will cause abdominal 
trouble or i)ain. 

Symptoms : — There is no one special symptom whereby 
the trouble may be determined or located. Unless the 
parts become strangulated, there may be no symptoms 
displayed, except constipation and even then there may 
be a few scant passages of manure. Colicky pains may 
be present and severe straining may be observed. If 
strangulation of the bowel takes place, the animal will 
sutler intense pain unless relieved, and die within a 
few hours, and even when the pain is relieved, it may 
linger for a few days and then die. Cases have been 
reported where one portion of a bowel had slipped into 
another and become strangulated; the part of the 
bowel thus enveloped gradually sloughed off, so that the 
ends of the bowel grew together, and the discarded por- 
tion passed away with the manure ; a comjDlete recovery 
resulted. Such cases are very rare ; however, they have 
served as a warning and guide in our treatment of this 
ati'ection. In such cases as terminate fatally, just prior 
to death the animal will sweat profusely ; the legs and 
ears become cold and there is an anxious appearing 
countenance and an occasional sigh; for a brief period 
of time there is cessation of acute pain, then the animal 
falls to rise no more. 



rEniTONITIS, ETC. Ill 

Treatment: — As soon as convinced that the bowels 
are invaginated, give such remedies as will relieve the 
pain and keep the patient quiet and comfortable, as, 

Laudanum eight ounces. 

Sulphuric Ether eight ounces. Mix. 

Give two ounces in a pint of Avater every hour until 
relieved, then give at intervals, sufficient to keep the 
patient quiet ; or give one drachm of powdered or gum 
opium every hour until there is relief from pain, after 
which, just often enough to keep the patient quiet 
and let nature work its course. The giving of physic 
in this affection is liable to be productive of a great 
deal of harm and should, therefore, be avoided, but 
should the bowels slip back to their place and resume 
their normal functions, except being somewhat consti- 
pated, which they sometimes do when kept perfectly 
quiet, the administration of a pint of raw linseed oil 
three times a day until the bowels become relaxed, will 
be of much benefit and should be given. 



PERITONITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE LINING 
MEMBRANE OF THE ABDOMINAL CAVITY. 

Causes: — Exposure to cold rains when heated; cas- 
tration; any surgical operation in wdiich the abdominal 
walls are pierced ; kicks or blo^vs ; abscess of the liver 
or stomach; rupture of the womb while foaling; abscess 
of the womb. 

Symptoms: — Pain in the abdomen, demonstrated by 
the patient's turning and pointing to the side; on press- 
ing the abdomen at or near the affected part, the ani- 
mal will evince great pain ; on being made to move, it 
seems stiff and in pain. If the horse lies down, it does 
60 very carefully. As the pain is increased while down, 



112 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

it usually maintains a standing position. The pulse 
generally ranges from seventy to ninety beats per min- 
ute and is hard and wiry. The abdomen is tucked-up ; 
the breathing accelerated and short, and quite fre- 
quently the animal will bloat; in three or four days 
dropsy of the abdomen appears, when the severer pains 
will cease and the patient will breathe more deeply and 
freely. 

Treatment : — If acute peritonitis is seen at the outset, 
bleeding freely from the jugular vein will frequently 
stop the progress of di-r-ase. Then give fifteen drop 
doses of fluid extract ar ..te every hour until the disease 
is under control, or give, 

Powd. Opium one ounce. 

Calomel four drachms. Mix. 

Make into eight powders and give one every four 
hours. Apply hot cloths to the abdomen but be careful 
that the patient does not take cold. Mustard poultices 
applied to the abdomen will have the same effect. 
Pliysic must not be given during this disease. If the 
disease arises from abscesses of the stomach or liver, or 
from rupture of the womb, stimulating treatment 
should be tried, though the termination invariably is 
death. Apply diluted alcohol to the limbs and bandage 
thoroughly. Place the patient wliere no draughts can 
strike it and blanket well. Feed on soft maslies or 
linseed gruel, boiled oats or barley, in restricted 
quantities. 



BOTS. 

These are the larvae of the different species of gad- 
fly, which pester horses in the summer. They fly about 
horses and deposit their eggs upon their legs and sides ; 
and by the horse biting or licking itself, they are 



BOTS. 118 

taken into the stomach, when they fasten themselves to 
tlie mucous lining of the stomach or of the upper part 
of the small intestine (duodenum.) There they develop 
into the grub or hot and subsist upon the gastric or in- 
testinal juices, and when once they lose their hold they 
seldom regain it. If but feAV in numbers, they never 




BOTS. 

1.— Female Fly, 2.— Egg. 

3.— The Bot. 4.— The Chrysalis. 
5.— Male Fly. 

do any harm. If existing in great numbers, they cauee 
indigestion and colic ; sometimes they almost stop up 
the duodenum. In such cases the horse will not thrive 
and will be troubled with indigestion ; it will be weak 
g,nd easily fatigued^ 

Treatment : — Feeding sliced potatoes is beneficial, or 
warm sage tea, two quarts. Follow it up with a brisk 
cathartic — 

Aloes one ounce. 

Ginger two drachms. Mix. 



114 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

This will sometimes carry off quite a number of the 
hots. But there is no remedy yet known which will de- 
stroy the hot while in the stomach. In the early spring 
they pass away voluntarily and during the summer de- 
velop into the gad-fly. 



WORMS. 

A great many varieties of worms infest the intes- 
tines of horses. A thorough description of them is 




WORMS. 

quite unnecessary. Suffice it to say they are of no bene- 
fit to the animal and the sooner they are expelled from 
the bowels the better. 

Symptoms: — Rough, staring coat; ravenous appetite, 
rubbing the tail, loss of flesh, big or pot-belly, licking 




SYMPT0:\rS OF WORMS. 

of dirt, pallor of the mucous membranes, sunken eyes, 
sometimes constijiation, at otliers diarrlioea; frequent 



WORMS. 115 

switching of the tail; worms protruding or smashed 
around the anus, leaving a white or mattery substance. 
Treatment: — It is necessary to prepare the animal 
prior to i;iving any worm medicine. First, allow the 
animal to fast for twenty-four hours, then give a soft 
bran mash, to be followed immediately with, 

Barbadoes Aloes one ounce. 

Santonine one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose, either in pill or in half pint of 
water, as n drench. If this does not remove them all, 
repeat in five days, or you may use, 

Raw Linseed Oil • • • . eighteen ounces. 

Spirits Turpentine six ounces. Mix. 

Give four ounces morning and evening. Immediately 
after the last dose is given, administer the following : 

Barbadoes Aloes one ounce. 

Gentian two drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose in half pint of water as a drench. 
It is a well-known fact, that intestinal worms are 
mostly seen in horses that are in poor condition, and if 
a1h)wed to remain in this condition, worms will rapidly 
accumulate again, even though they had all been 
expelled by the worm medicines. It is, therefore, nec- 
essary to tone up the powers of digestion. This can be 
done with. 

Ginger one ounce. 

Gentian one ounce, 

Nux Vomica one ounce. 

Bi-Oarbonate of Soda one ounce. Mix. 

Give teaspoonful three times a day in food or as a 
drench. Give good food and pure water and the animal 
will commence to thrive, then worms will cease accum- 
ulating. A great many colts are lost every year from 
worms, when a few doses of prepared chalk will remove 



116 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

them. Give a teaspoonful once a day for a week. If 
they become constipated, give four to six ounces of 
raw linseed oil. Prepared chalk given to aged horses, 
will assist in removing worms. 



DIABETES INSIPIDUS. 

Among the horses in this country, this disease quite 
frequently occurs and has various causes. Among them 
are feeding on musty hay or grain, exposure to wet and 
cold, blows on the top of the head, drinking ice-cold 
water while heated, eating too much malt from distil- 
leries, the reckless administration of medicines that act 
upon the kidneys, new oats imperfectly cured, etc. 

Symptoms : — An excessive discharge — amounting to 
several gallons within twenty-four hours, of almost 
colorless urine ; excessive thirst ; withholding water 
from the animal does not check the disease. Sometimes 
it comes on very slowly, at others it develops to an 
alarming extent within twenty-four hours; it varies in 
duration from a few days to months and even years. If 
it lasts for any considerable time, the animal will lose 
flesh rapidly. There will be pallor of the mucous mem- 
branes, rough coat ; skin drawn tight to the ribs. Death 
finally results from emaciation and prostration. 

Treatment : — Change the diet to good, clean hay and 
grain, and give a liberal supply of boiled flaxseed in 
the drinking water. Also give, 

Sulphate of Iron two ounces. 

Gentian one ounce. 

Nux Vomica one ounce. 

Iodide of Potassium two ounces. Mix. 

Make into sixteen powders and give one powder at 
each meal. The drinking water should be restricted in 
quantity and of good quality. Give plenty of rest. 



ACITES, ANASARCA OR DROPSICAL SWELLING. 117 

ALBUMENURIA— BRIGHT'S DISEASE. 

This disease consists of an inflammation of the 
kidneys either acute or chronic, with degeneration and 
shedding of casts of epithelium from the tubes of the 
kidneys. It occurs in horses of all ages. 

Symptoms : — The horse walks with a straddling gait 
and passes a thick, ropy urine, which upon being 
boiled or tested with corrosive sublimate, acetate of 
lead, or nitric acid, coagulates in part in whitish flakes. 
The animal usually wastes in flesh ; general health seems 
broken; dropsical swellings appear but vanish upon 
exercise. 

Treatment: — Avoid any exposure to cold, wet or 
fatigue. Keep in a comfortable, warm box-stall and 
keep the body warm by blanketing. See that the 
bowels are kept loose by feeding on bran mashes or 
other soft food and if inclined to be costive, give a pint 
of raw linseed oil ; also give half ounce doses of tincture 
chloride of iron three times a day, diluted in a pint of 
water. Use cloths wrung out of hot water, over the 
loins, frequently ; if this does not assist in the flow of 
urine, give ounce doses of fluid extract buchu and 
juniper with acetate of potassium three times a day, 
but be persistent with the hot cloths, as this is better 
than giving medicines to act upon the kidneys. 



ACITES, ANASARCA, OR DROPSICAL SWELLING. 

Causes : — Obstruction to venous circulation, excess of 
water in the blood, disease of the heart, disease of the 
liver, disease of the kidneys, the action of cold and wet 
upon the skin, causing an arrest of execretion ; but the 
principal cause, is neglected influenza; when it has con- 



118 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

tinned for some time, the system is debilitated and the 
blood is in a watery state. 

Symptoms : — If following a prolonged attack of influ- 
enza or distemper, the blood is impoverished, paleness 
of the mucous membranes is observed around the mouth, 
nose and eyes ; swellings appear, either at the breast 
and gradually spread backward under the belly, or 
commence between the hind legs or at the sheath, and 
gradually more foward. In the course of a few days, 
the whole of the lower part of the abdomen is swollen, 
80 that it leaves a ridge on either side. The swelling 
pits, upon pressure, and if pricked with a knife, a yel- 
lowish fluid oozes out. The appetite is capricious, but 
hay will sometimes be fairly well consumed. The 
animal will lie down at tirst, but as the swelling 
increases, it Avill persist in standing, and if compelled 
to move, will walk quite stiff and sore. Pressure upon 
the swelling when it first appears, causes pain, but as 
the swelling increases, pain upon pressure diminishes. 
Treatment : — First place the animal in a comfortable 
stall and bed well to entice it to lie down. Feed upon 
choice hay and grain. Give bran mashes to keep the 
bowels open. If the weather is cold, blanket well, and 
in the daytime turn out to exercise. Take a knife and 
make several small incisions into the swelling, to allow 
the serum to escape ; or take a paddle and drive several 
small tacks through it, allowing them to protrude from 
one-fourth to three-eighths of an inch, then paddle the 
swelling with the sharp tacks; this will leave several 
email openings through which the serum will escape. 
Then give the following : 

Sulphate of Iron two ounces. 

Powd. Nux Vomica one ounce. 

Gentian one, ounce. 

Nitrate of Potass two ounces. Mix. 



H.F,jiATi;]iiA, OK j;i.<.()r)v ukixe. J JO 

Make sixteen powders. Give one powder morning, 
noon and night. If the urine does not pass freely, give 
the following : 

Acetate of Potass four ounces. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Give four ounces every four or five hours. If the 
bowels are costive, physic with, 

Powd. Barbadoes Aloes. . . . one ounce. 

Powd. Ginger two drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose in lialf pint of water as a drench. 



HAEMATURIA, OR BLOODY URINE. 

Blood in the urine is not often observed in horses, 
but is frequently seen in both cattle and sheep. When 
seen in horses, it is generally caused by some violent 
strain or injury, as slipping while starting a heavy load 
or while rearing up and jumping, in this manner injur- 
ing or straining the psoas muscles, which are situated in 
the region of the kidneys below the back-bone. Or it 
may be caused by fracture of the back-bone over the 
kidneys, or from gravel in tiie kidneys or bladder, or in 
the channels leading from the kidneys and bladder, 
tlirough which the urine passes. It may arise from con- 
gestion of the kidneys, or from ulcers and abscesses in 
the parts through which the urine passes, as well as in 
the kidneys, from the rupture of a small blood vessel in 
these organs; also from eating acrid plants which exert 
a powerful diuretic action. If the blood is coming from 
the kidneys, it will be uniformly mixed with the urine, 
but if from other parts, it may come away in clots or 
streaks. 

Treatment: — Remove the causes if they can be ascer- 
tained and located. If from irritants in the food. 



120 DISEASES OE THE HORSE. 

change it immediately ; if from gravel in the bladder, 
remove it ; if from the rupture of a small blood vessel 
and it is within reach, tie it, and if from fracture or 
sprain, give the treatment required for these injuries. 
If the flow of blood is very great, apply cold water to 
the loins and keep the animal as quiet as possible. 
Give mucilaginous drinks frequently, as linseed and 
slippery elm tea ; also give, 

Tincture Chloride of Iron, eight ounces. 
Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Give two tablespoonfuls three times a day in half 
pint of water ; or give a teaspoonful of sulphuric acid 
twice daily in drinking water, or ounce doses twice 
daily of spirits turpentine well diluted with raw lin- 
seed oil. 



PARALYSIS OF THE BLADDER. 

When the urine is withheld for a continued length 
of time, the bladder becomes over-distended and loses 
its contractile force, a condition which may last for a 
considerable period of time. It is generally brought on 
by some disease causing the animal to occupy a recum- 
bent position, such as rheumatism, azoturia, etc. Many 
horses will fail or refuse to pass their urine while lying 
down, and all such cases should be relieved by having it 
drawn away twice daily with a catheter. When the 
bladder has lost its power of contraction, it is paralyzed, 
or partially so, and it will be observed that the urine 
dribbles away in small quantities, scalding all the parts 
with which it comes in contact. When caused by over- 
distension with urine, by keeping the bladder emptied, 
it will in the course of time, regain its contractile pow- 
ers and normal condition. . If it is caused by paralysis 



HYDROCELE — DROPSY OF THE SCROTUM. 121 

of the hind parts, while treating for this disease, do not 
allow the bladder to become distended but draw the 
urine away three times a day witli a catheter. 



HYDROCELE— DROPSY OF THE SCROTUM. 

The scrotum is the sack or pouch which covers and 
contains the testicles. Dropsy, or a watery effusion 
within the scrotum, may arise from injuries to tlie 
parts, or disease of the testicles or lining meml)rane of 
the sack, and it may be the result of dropsy of the 
abdomen, as it has a direct connection with the abdom- 
inal cavity. 

Symptoms: — There will be an enlarged condition of 
the scrotum, which organ will be soft and fluctuating 
under pressure of the fingers. The testicles will be 
felt floating in water. Sometimes the scrotum will 
retain the indentation of the finger after pressure. The 
liquid can be forced up into the abdomen by pressure ; 
or by laying the horse upon its back, the fluid will 
gradually recede into the abdominal cavity. 

Treatment : — If the effusion of liquid within the sack 
is very limited in amount, feed upon good, nutritious 
diet and give, 

Iodide Potassium two ounces. 

"Water one pint. Mix. 

Give tAvo tablespoonfuls morning and evening. But 
if there is a large amount of liquid witliin the sack, tap 
with a trocar and canula and allovv' the fluid to escape; 
immediately inject into the sack, one ounce of tincture 
iodine, and repeat this in a few days, if necessary. And 
in addition to the above prescription, administer a 
tonic, as, 



122 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Sulphate of Iron two ounces. 

Nux Vomica one ounce. 

Nitrate of Potassium two ounces. Mix. 

Make twelve powders. Give two powders each day. 
If the testicles are inflamed and enlarged, use locally, 

Laudanum two ounces. 

Goulard's Ext two ounces. 

Soft Water one quart. Mix. 

Saturate a soft cloth and apply to the jjarts and keep 
it wet with the above mixture. If it occurs in geldings, 
as the result of injuries, dissect out the sacks and treat 
as an ordinary wound. 



LEUCORRHOEA, OR WHITES. 

Leucorrhoea consists of a discharge of mucous or 
matter from the mucous membranes of tlie vagina, from 
the neck of the womb, and not infrecjuently from the 
womb itself. 

Causes : — Generally irritation of the organ followed 
by relaxation, but relaxation alone will produce it. 
Want of nutrition attended with debilitating influences 
is a frequent cause. Partial eversion of the womb or 
vagina, is also a cause. 

Symptoms: — On opening the lips of the vulva, a 
sticky whitish or yellowish matter will be seen. Quite 
frequently it runs out of the vagina and accumulates on 
the tail and surrounding parts. As the disease pro- 
gresses, the discharge emits an offensive odor, pulse 
grows feeble, mucous membrane pale, appetite partially 
suspended and a gradual wasting of the whole system. 
Mares affected with the whites are very often seeking a 
.male companion, but seldom get with foal and when 
they do, they generally abort. Occasionally, to aB 



STRICTURE OF THE URETHRA. 128 

appearances, an animal will be healthy and j'et affected 
with the whites. 

Treatment : — Feed on soft, nutritious diet, with 
tonics and btimulants, as. 

Sulphate of Iron foui- ounces. 

Gentian four ounces. 

Powd. Nux Vomica two ounces. Mix. 

Make twenty powders. Give one powder at each 
meal or as a drench. Use as an injection into the 
vagina or womb as the case demands, twice daily, one of 
the following powders dissolved in a quart of warm water : 

Permanganate of Potassium, two ounces. 

Sulphate of Zinc one ounce. Mix. 

Make sixteen powders. Previous to injecting, Avash 
out the vagina and womb with warm water to remove 
all matter. 



STRICTURE OF THE URETHRA. 

This consists of a partial closure, at a certain place 
of the channel through which the urine passes, and is 
caused by the healing of ulcers in gonorrhoea lind gleet, 
also by using strong astringent injections in the treat- 
ment of gonorrhoea and gleet, or from irritating ingre- 
dients in the urine, as stone or gravel passing from the 
bladder. 

Symptoms : — The trouble is demonstrated by the pas- 
sage of urine in a fine stream. The act is accomplished 
by hard straining; the animal will sometimes groan 
from pain • also painful erections of the penis are fre- 
quently observed. The passage of a small stream of 
\irine, with straining and groaning, is sometimes noticed 
when the so-called bean is lodged in the end of the 
penis. 



121 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



Treatment: — Take a small sized catheter, oil it well 
and pass it beyond the stricture, using a catheter a little 
larger day by day, forcing it up past the stricture with 
gentle pressure, until the stricture has disappeared. 
Beyond the oiling of the catheter, there is no medicine 
necessary. 



NEPHRITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 

This disease is of infrequent occurrence but may be 
induced in various ways, — as by spraining the loins 
while pulling hard, carrying too heavy a weight, being 




INFLAMIVIATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 

heated and then exposed to the cold, absorption of can- 
tharides wlien applied as a blister to large surfaces, by 
the administration of severe diuretics, the presence of 
stone in the kidneys, etc. 

Symptoms: — The animal walks with a straddling gait 
and with back "roached;" evinces pain similar to that 
of colic ; if it lies down, will do so very carefully ; small 
and frequent passages of very highly colored urine; 



FOUL SHEATH. 125 

fever usually very higli, pulse cord-like to the touch, 
and very fast; breathing very much accelerated; in the 
course of a few days, swelling of the limbs, whicli dis- 
appears upon exercising. 

Treatment: — Put the animal in a good, comfortable 
place, blanket warmly and persistently apply hot cloths 
across the loins. Give a good physic. 

Sulphate of Soda one pound. 

Water two quarts. Mix. 

Or give three pints of raw linseed oil, followed by 
drachm doses of Dover's powder, every three or four 
hours ; or 

Liq. Ammonia Acet sixteen ounces. 

Nitrous ^ther two ounces. 

Spts. Camphor two ounces. Mix. 

Give four ounces every three hours to stimulate per- 
spiration. Feed on soft diet and in a few days give 
fluid extract buchu juniper, with acetate potassium, 
half-ounce doses morning and evening. Keep the 
bowels loose all the time and give injections of warm 
water and laudanum every hour for a few hours. 



FOUL SHEATH. 



The sheaths of horses sometimes become very dirty, 
and should receive the owner's attention. The glands in 
the sheath secrete a fluid to lubricate the p»arts and 
when large quantities are secreted, it accumulates in 
the form of a black, gummy substance, filling up the 
sheath and preventing the animal from passing out the 
penis when urinating. Some horses seldom protrude 
the penis during the act of staling ; when they do not, a 
sediment from the urine assists in creating a foul 
sheath. Sometimes when the sheath becomes foul, the 



126 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

penis becomes sore and scaly and the surrounding parts 
become swollen to a greater or lesser extent. 

Treatment : — Take a sponge or soft cloth, some warm 
wiiter and castile soap and wash out the sheath thor- 
oughly but carefully, and do not use too much force in 
drawing out the penis. It is well to cut off your finger 
nails to prevent scratching the parts. If the parts be- 
come injured while cleaning, oil with sweet oil, and 
should there be much swelling, bathe frequently with 
hot water and givethe animal exercise. When washing 
out the sheath, always examine the end of the penis ; 
here there is a small pouch just below the channel, 
through which the water passes; accumulations called 
beans, sometimes form and obstruct the flow of urine. 
These should always be removed. 



RETENTION OF URINE. 

This has various causes, — such as spasm of the neck 
of tlie bladder, calculus (or stone in the bladder) working 
its way into the urethra, paralysis of the neck of the 
bladder, over-distention of the bladder with urine. The 
more frequent cause is spasm. In spasmodic colic the 
neck of the bladder becomes constricted and is only 
relieved as the colic disappears. 

Symptoms: — See treatise on colic for symptoms of 
spasm. From other causes the animal will walk with 
a straddling gait, frequently attempt to urinate, stand 
stretched out and groan when attempting to urinate ; 
sometimes pain is so severe as to cause perspiration to 
break out all over the body ; urine is passed in small 
quantities. 

Treatment : — If from colic, treat for that. If from 
other causes, as calculus (stone in the bladder), pass 



CYSTITIS, OR INKLAM.MATIOX OF THK BLADDER. 127 

tho catheter and after\var<ls remove the stone. If from 
spasm of the neck of the l)hidder or from over-distension 
with urine, pass the hand per rectum and apply extract 
of belhidonna, or give hot water injections, or pass the 
catheter. 



CYSTITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

Causes: — Retention and decomposition of urine, irri- 
tation by stone in the bladder; in the female, irritation 
and eversion caused by foaling; injudicious use of 
diuretics; occasional heavy and repeated blistering with 
cantharides ; or application, by persons of little sense, 
of irritants to the neck of the bladder for the purpose of 
pronioting a discharge of urine ; irritation of a catheter 
or other foreign substance introduced from without, 
over-distension of the bladder with urine, sudden 
exposure while perspiring to cohi and wet, or from 
disease extending from the vagina and urethra to the 
bladder. 

Symptoms: — Frequent attempts to urinate, urine 
passed in small quantities, heavy straining; bearing 
down pains, lying down and getting up, quite frequently 
straining hard while lying; pulse not very much 
clianged, fever ranging from 101° to 104° F. ; if on 
pasture, the animal will wander around in a shiftless, 
uneasy manner. The penis hangs from the sheath in 
the male and in the mare the vulva is frequently 
opened and closed, as after making water. Upon exam- 
ination per rectum or vagina, there will be found a 
hard, round tumor — sometimes quite large, at others 
small — sensitive to the touch, and the neck of the 
bladder will be very much thickened. 

Treatment: — Feed on soft, sloppy gruels or bran 
mashes. If there is intense pain, give drachm doses of 



128 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

powdered opium ; also make a decoction of one drachm 
of powdered opium to one pint of hot water, and inject 
it into the bhidder three or four times a day. Give 
internally, one quart of raw linseed oil ; if that does not 
physic in twenty-four hours, repeat the dose. If the 
bladder is distended with urine, pass the catheter and 
draw the urine off. As the patient appears better and 
improving, give morning and evening half-ounce doses 
of fluid extract buchu juniper and acetate of potassium. 



GONORRHOEA— CLAP. 

In the male, this is inflammation of the urethra, and 
inflammation of the vagina in the female. Its causes 
are unclean sexual intercourse, irritation by stone pass- 
ing from bladder, injuries during copulation, or from 
passing a rough, unclean catheter. 

Symptoms : — While passing urine the animal evinces 
pain; in the male, frequent erections of the penis; 
occasional swelling of the testicles; aggravation by 
exercise ; discharge of a yellowish white matter ; occas- 
ional great swelling of the glans penis. 

Treatment : — Frequently bathe the parts in hot water, 
give one quart of raw linseed oil, feed on soft mashes 
and good clean hay. Give drachm doses of balsam of 
copabia, morning and evening and use injections of hot 
water three times a day ; or injections of — 

Sulphate of Zinc twelve grains. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Sulphate of Copper eight grains. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Nitrate of Silver ten grains. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 



EVEKSI'^^T OF THE BLADDER. 129 

Use three times a day, any of these. If the testi-^les 
become inflamed, apply a poultice of tobacco. 

If small ulcers make their appearance, fill them with 
calomel or cauterize with lunar caustic. Stallions 
afiected in this manner should be withheld, from service. 
Neither sliould mares be bred nor should they, if sutf'er- 
inji' from leucorrhoea or whites. 



EVERSION OF THE BLADDER. 

This occurs only in the female, and then only 
through excessive straining. Most frequently it happens 
when the patient is laboring very hard to deliver her- 
self of a colt, with a mal -presentation. If eversion 
ti.kes place, a red soft fluctuating tumor will be seen, 
protruding between the lips of the vulva, varying in size 
from a goose egg to that of a sugar bowl. 

Treatment: — If the eversion has just happened, take 
a smooth, round piece of hardwood about the size of your 
little finger, place it on the center of the tumor and press 
back through the channel through which it came ; assist 
with your hand by pressing the tumor toward the 
center. If too large to return, wrap it tightly with a 
bandage to force the swelling down and when reduced 
enough, return as per direction given. Be very careful 
while returning, or you may rupture the bladder, when 
your patient is done for. After it is returned, bathe 
the parts with 

Powd. or Gum Opium one drachm. * 

Warm Water one pint. Mix. 

Give ounce doses of laudanum every two hours to 
prevent the straining. If the bowels become consti- 
pated, give one quart of raw linseed oil. Whenever 
you see the patient begin to strain, place your hand on 



180 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

the bladder and hold it firmly. Place the patient sc 
the hind parts will be a foot higher than the fore parts. 
A truss may be placed upon the patient, the same as for 
eversion of the womb. 



INFLAMMATION OF THE TESTICLES. 

This has various causes, among them blows, kicks 
from mares during copulation, excessive copulation, 
gonorrhoea, catching cold while having distemper. 

Symptoms : — Walks with a straddling gait ; swelling 
of the testicles, accompanied by heat and tenderness 
upon pressure ; loss of appetite ; disinclination to lie 
down; sometimes the part is so painful that the animal 
breaks out in profuse perspiration ; drawing up and let- 
ting down the testicle within the scrotum, etc. ! 
Treatment : — Give the patient a good, comfortable, 
loose box-stall, well bedded, to entice him to lie down. 
Then give a good physic, — 

Powd. Aloes nine drachms. 

Powd. Ginger two drachms. 

Water one-half pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose. Then apply locally, 

Goulard's Extract four drachms. 

Laudanum : . . . .four drachms. 

Rain Water one quart. Mix. 

Keep the testicles wet continuously with the above 
mixture, by either putting it upon soft rags or cotton 
batting, and holding against the testicles by placing a 
suspensory bandage beneath them and tying it over the 
back. The bandage also acts as a support to the cord. 
Sometimes bathing the testicle with hot water and after 
each bathing applying solid extract belladonna and pow- 
dered oi)ium, equal parts, or placing a boiled tobacco 



CYSTIC CALCULUS, OR STONE IN THE BLADDER. 181 

poultice in the bandage and keeping it on continuously, 
will give the desired result without further treatment. 
If pus or serum can be felt fluctuating, make a free 
opening and allow it to escape. Then dress the wound 
with, 

Carbolic Acid half ounce. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Or, 

Permanganate of Potash. two drachms. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Apply two or three times a day. If gangrene takes 
place, castrate immediately, after which wash out the 
wound three times a day with the last prescription. 



CYSTIC CALCULUS, OR STONE IN THE BLADDER. 

Symptoms: — Frequent attempts to void the urine, 
occasionally passing small quantities and suddenly 
stopping; blood may be passed in small quantities; on 
examination, per rectum, the stone, if of any size, will 
be found in the bladder; when the stones are small 
they sometimes will pass with the urine ; occasionally 
hard straining while passing. 

Treatment: — This should never be attempted by an 
amateur, as it is not always successful in the hands of a 
professional. The operation is called lithotomy and is 
performed by cutting into the urethra in the perineal 
region, when the patient is a male. Previously pass 
the catheter and let it remain as a guide. Then pass a 
pair of spoon forceps, gently dilating the urethra, seize 
the stone and extract slowly. Afterwards close the 
wotjnd with sutures and treat as a flesh wound. ^ In the 
female, gradually dilate the urethra, then pass the for- 
ceps, seize the stone and withdraw. In some cases the 



132 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

stone is very large : if so, introduce a pair of for 
and crush the stone, then remove the pieces. A 
removing the stone, inject the bladder with warm w 
and a decoction of opium, three times a day for a 
days. 



INFLAMMATION OF THE MAMMARY GLANDS, OK 
UDDER. 

Causes: — Blows on the udder, lying on cold, 
ground, exposure to cold rains, neglect of milking, 
denly feeding rich food causing indigestion, etc. 

Symptoms: — Loss of appetite, fever, hurried bre 
ing, constipation, shivering spells, sometimes the w 
bag is involved, but more frequently one-half ( 
quarter ; the part of the bag affected, will present a 
appearance and be hard and painful to the touch ; t 
will be falling off of milk in that part and possibl; 
the whole bag; frequently streaks of blood will 
from the teat while milking; patient walks in a sti 
straddling manner and, quite frequently, will go la 

Treatment : — If the case is very mild, bathe well | 
camphorated soap liniment and a cure will be the re 
But in a more aggravated case give, / 

Epsom Salts twelve ounces. | 

Sulphate of Soda eight ounces. 

Ginger one-half ounce. Mix. 

Stir in a gallon of warm water and give at one d 
Bathe the bag freely with, camphorated soap lini 

Or, 

Witchhazel fourteen ounces. 

Laudanum two ounces. 

Use three times a day ; or put one-half pound 
phate of iron into one-half gallon of hot wateJ 



( 



SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA, ETC. 133 

'the the bag frequently ; or poultice the bag with 
iseed meal and grease frequently with — 

Lard, or Vaseline four ounces. 

Solid Ext. Belladonna one ounce. Mix. 

If matter forms, open and let it escape ; inject the 
.scess with two drachms of permanganate of potas- 
ini in sixteen ounces of water, twice a day. Some- 
mes in the milder form, it is advisable to let a hungry 
If suck and burst it. If gangrene ensues, amputate 
lat portion of the bag. 



MPLE OPTHALMIA, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. 

Causes : — Feeding from a rack above the head, thus 
atting chaff, etc., into the eyes; blows from whips or 
"icks, exposure to cold, obstruction of the lachrymal 
uct, irritating influence of a badly-ventilated stable. 

Symptoms: — Whatever the cause, the eyes will be 
id, or blood-shot, and watery; swelling of the eye-lids; 
y^es, hot and feverish ; if not relieved, a white film 
Dreads over the eye ; lids kept closed most of the time. 
Treatment: — If a foreign body gets into the eye, 
?move it, bathe the eye with hot water, and all will 
e well in a few days. A decoction of opium may be 
ided to the hot water. If from a blow or from 
sposure to cold, give a physic — 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Powd. Ginger one drachm. 

Water one-half pint. Mix. 

Bathe the eye with hot water and apply, 

Zinc Sulphate four grains. 

Atropia Sulphate two grains. 

Soft Water two ounces. Mix. 

Or, 



134 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Sulphate of Copper four grains. 

Water two ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Common Salt ten grains. 

Brown Sui;ar ten grains. 

Water two ounces. Mix. 

Apply three times a day. Sometimes it is advisable 
to blister the temples with — 

Cantharides one drachm. 

Vaseline one ounce. Mix. 

In removing a foreign body, apply to the eyes for a 
few minutes a solution of five grains of cocaine to one- 
half ounce of water. Apply five drops and in two min- 
utes repeat, when the object can be removed with ease. 



AMAUROSIS— PARALYSIS OF THE NERVE OF SIGHT. 

Amaurosis is a paralyzed condition of the nerve of 
sight and may be caused by pressure upon the nerve 
from tumors in the brain, injury or fracture of the 
skull causing pressure upon the brain or upon the nerve 
between the eye and brain, inflammation of the nerve 
of sight, excessive bleeding either internally or through 
accident, an over-loaded stomach, or excessive weight 
in the womb during pregnancy. It may be seen during 
a very high fever and is invariably observed during a 
severe attack of parturient apoplexy. 

Symptoms: — An unnaturally wHe~dilatation of the 
pupil, which remains round and morionless. There is 
no contraction or dilation when brought to a bright 
light or placed in a darkened situation, as is observed 
in the healthy eye. The best test is to bring the animal 
from a dark stall to a bright light ; if the pupil does not 
contract at all but remains large and stationary, there 



I 



OBSTRUCTION OF THE LACHRYMAL DUCT, ETC. 185 

is an attack of amaurosis, even though the eyes may 
look clear and bright. The animal is blind, and motions 
toward the eye as if the intention were to strike, will 
Dot cause any movement, such as winking or closing it, 
unless the hand causes a current of air. The ears are 
on the alert and turn quickly if a noise is made, the 
animal steps liigh with the front feet to avoid stumbling, 
the same as a ))lind horse. 

Treatment: — All manner of treatment is useless, 
unless the disease is the result of some ailment or injury 
which is curable, as an over-loaded stomach, the abate- 
ment of high fever, congestion of the brain, excessive 
bleeding, etc., although there have been instances 
where the animal, fully rt^rovering from excessive bleed- 
ing, failed to regain the eye-sight and remained blind 
through life. When the sight is not restored following 
the favorable termination of the disease, apply blisters 
behind the ears and around the teujples, as, 

Powd Cantharides one drachm. 

Red Iodide of Mercury one drachm. 

Vaseline one ounce. Mix. 

Apply every five days until three applications have 
been made. Also give one drachm doses of powdered 
DUX vomica, twice daily. 



OBSTRUCTION OF THE LACHRYMAL DUCT- 
WATERING EYE. 

Tears escaping from the eye and coursing down over 
the cheeks, are a symptom of inflammation of the eye, 
but if there is neither redness or swelling of the eye or 
eyelids, it is evident that there is some obstruction of 
the lachrymal duct. This duct is situated at the inner 
corner of the eye and extends doAvnwards, opening into 



136 DISEASES OE THE HORSE. 

the nostril, and conveying the watery secretion of the 
eye, emptying it into the nostril. If this duct becomes 
obstructed in any manner, the tears will flow over the 
cheeks. It may be caused by a catarrhal affection ; the 
duct may be closed by fracture of the bones of the face 
or from eversion of the eyelid, the duct failing to re- 
ceive the tears, or it may be closed at the opening into 
the nostril, by dust and dry matter adhering to it. 

Treatment : — If from the adherence of dust and dry 
matter, remove the obstacles with a wet sponge. If 
there are other obstructions, take a silver or an elastic 
probe about fifteen inches long and about the diameter 
of a knitting needle and insert it down through the 
duct once a day for a few days. If from inflammation 
or catarrhal affection, bathe the face frequently with 
hot water, for an hour at a time, also steam the nostrils. 
A good way to steam the nose, is to feed the animal hot 
bran and oats out of a nosebag. By examining the floor 
of the nostril about three or four inches up, a small 
opening will be observed, into which insert the end of a 
small syringe and inject warm water, which will come 
out at the inner corner of the eye; then inject the fol- 
lowing : 

Nitrate of Silver twelve grains. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Inject once daily for a few days. If fracture or dis- 
ease of the teeth causes the obstruction, remove or treat 
them, to reuiove the pressure from the duct, and a cure 
will be perfected. 



TORN EYE-LIDS. 



This injury may arise from various sources ; the most 
frequent are, from catching upon nails driven around 



WARTS. 137 

the stable and from barbed-wire fences, or from the 
bites of other horses while playing, or in any other 
accidental way. 

Treatment: — This consists in bringing the wound 
together with a few stitches, if possible, after which tie 
the patient so it cannot rub it and keep a linen cloth 
dampened with water over the eye ; or if it is inflamed 
to any extent, take — 

Chloride of Ammonium. . . two ounces. 

Nitrate of Potassium two ounces. 

Water .' one pint. Mix. 

Shake thoroughly until dissolved, then dip the 
cloths into the solution and apply to the inflamed part. 
If some part will not heal, take a pair of shears and cut 
it off, then apply the former solution. 



WARTS. 

Warts are an overgrowth of the papilla of the skin 
and are mostly seen on young horses, but horses of any 
age are not exempt from them. -They generally appear 
on the thin and delicate portion of the skin, as the sides 




WAETS. 



of the nose, the eye-lids, the inner parts of the hind 
legs, the sheath, abdomen and on the neck. They vary 
greatly in size from that of a grain of wheat to a large 



188 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

goblet. Some are flat and some pedunculated (that is- 
fastened with a constricted neck). Sometimes they are- 
quite tough and hard, and again some are soft and bleed 
easily. They always have a small beginning and grad- 
jiially increase in size. Some warts, after attaining a 
certain growth, will remain the same size for years. 

Treatment : — Warts should be removed while still 
small. If they have a constricted neck, twist or burn 
them off; afterwards burn them with lunar caustic, blue- 
vitriol or a red-hot iron. If they are flat, scrape tliem 
a little and dress with chloride of zinc or touch tliem 
with nitric acid once a day until they are destroyed, 
tlien grease until well. Sometimes warts are tied off. 
This is done by tying a strong string around them and 
in a few days another tied still tighter, and so continu- 
ing until the wart drops off. If these growths are on 
the lips or eye-lids, touch with nitric acid daily, but 
care must be exercised, so that the acid will not touch 
any part but the wart. Small warts that appear on 
young colts in the summer, usually disappear voluntarily 
in the winter. 



PERIODIC OPTHHALMIA, OR MOON BLINDNESS. 

Causes: — First and chief, want of judgment in breed- 
ing, as it is undoubtedly hereditary and horses or mares 
affected with it, should not be used for breeding pur- 
poses ; living in low, marshy, ill-drained localities, irri- 
tation from teething; intestinal worms, etc. 

Symptoms: — These are similar to those of simple 
ophthalmia, but are more marked. The first symptom 
usually noticed is swelling of the eyelids in the morn- 
ing, and, uxjon examination, the eye is found to be 
somewhat inflamed, with red streaks of an aggravated 



EPILEPSY, OR FAIJ.lNd FITS. 139 

appearance running across the eye-ball; at the lower 
part of the eye-ball will be seen a semi-circular whitish 
or yellow spot, possibly the size of a half nickel ; the in- 
ner corners of the eye-brows are drawn down, forming 
almost a right angle; generally the eye is retracted 
within the orbit, and the haw, or membrana nictitans, 
pushed out over the eye-ball. These symptoms may 
pass off to reappear in the course of a few weeks or pos- 
sibly months, and continue to reappear until the animal 
goes blind. 

Treatment: — The treatment of periodic ophthalmia is 
simply palliative, unless t!ie case can be removed to a 
dry, healthy climate. Give a physic, 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Powd. Ginger one drachm. 

Water one-half pint. Mix. 

Bathe the eye with hot water and apply, 

Atropia Sulph one grain. 

Sulphate of Zinc two grains. 

Water one ounce. Mix. 

Put three drops into the eye three times a day. 
Good tonic treatment will invigorate the system and 
assist to ward off another attack, as. 

Sulphate of Iron four ounces. 

Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Glauber Salts two pounds. Mix. 

Give tablespoonful morning and evening. But your 
best treatment is to dispose of your horse at your earli- 
est convenience. 



EPILEPSY, OR "FALLING FITS.** 

The exact cause of this disease is not known, but it 
undoubtedly arises from some trouble with the bowels 
or brain. For horses troubled with worms frequently 



140 DISEASES OF THE HOKSE. 

have fits, and when once rid of the worms will cease having 
fits. Others, perfectly free from worms, have "falling 
fits" for years, owing to some structural change in the 
])rain, — as tumors, abscesses, etc., pressing upon the 
nerve centers, causing a rush of blood to the brain. 
Fright will frequently cause "falling fits." A horse, 
subject to them, when frightened, will invariably fall 
over in a fit. 

Symptoms : — Generally the first symptoms noticed 
will be movement of the ears backward and forward, 
loss of motion or staggering gait, head drawn backward, 
with twitching of the muscles of the neck. Then the 
animal will rear and fall over; when down, the head 
will be drawn backward and the muscles of the body 
and neck will be rigid or trembling ; sometimes the ani- 
mal will kick and strike violently, remain for a minute 
or perhaps several minutes, then get up and move on ; 
a wild or anxious expression of the countenance will al- 
ways be noticed ; the eyes bulge out and are very red. 

Treatment : — As soon as the fit is seen coming on, 
bleed from the nostrils and the animal will invariably 
rise and go on; or give by inhalation, chloroform or 
ether, which also relieves. Dashing cold water on the 
head during the fit is also beneficial. When aware that 
a horse has fits, attention should be directed to preven- 
tion as far as possible. If intestinal worms are si!s- 
pected, clean the bowels out with a physic and get rid 
of the worms. In a plethoric horse, an occasional 
physic will benefit by lessening the quantity of blood 
and cooling him off. But if the patient is of weak con- 
stitution, give vegetable and mineral tonics, as, 

Gentian four ounces. 

Powd. Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Sulphate of Iron two ounces. Mix. 



TETANUS, OR LOCK-JAW. 



141 



Give teaspoonful morning and evening. In the 
summer, during hot weather, keep a wet sponge on top 
of the head. Feed on soft food. Above all, do not 
whip or excite the animal. Drachm doses of bromide 
of potassium or sodium, given twice daily in drinking 
water, may be given with benefit. 



TETANUS, OR LOCK-JAW. 

The great majority of cases of lockjaw arise from 
puncturing the foot with a rusty nail, but it may he 
caused by wounds of any description. Quite frequently 
it is caused by castration — no matter how neatly or 




TETANUS, OR LOCK-JAW. 

thoroughly performed. It may also arise from exposure' 
to cold or wet, nicking or docking the tail, and from 
fractured bones. It will sometimes happen without any 
apparant cause, whatever, and sometimes from excessive 
fright. 

Symptoms: — The first observable sign is a great 
stiffness ; then the eyes are draw^n back into the sockets 



142 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



and the haw, membrana nictitans, will almost cover the 
eyes ; grinding of the teeth follows, with stiffness of the 
jaws and dribbling of saliva from the angles of the 
mouth ; on approaching the animal, the eyes are with- 
drawn into their sockets, the haws protrude over the 
eyes, and the patient manifests great fear ; the muscles 
along the neck are very rigid ; the tail is slightly ele- 
vated ; the animal will attempt to suck food or water, 
but the act of swallowing is extremely difficult and very 
little food or water reaches the stomach ;«.breatliing is 
usually accelerated, with the nostrils widely distended ; 




TETANUS, OE LOCK-JAW. 

pulse, regular but hard and incompressible ; fever, in 
some cases very slight, but in the more severe cases 
sometimes reaching 107° to 108° F. If compelled to 
move, the horse goes with a stilf, straddling gait ; while 
standing, its legs are spread apart, acting merely as 
props for the body. 

Treatment: — If possible, first ascertain the cause and 
remove it. If from a punctured foot, find the spot and 
pare it out to the bottom, and apply solid extract of 
belladonna to the wound. Put in a comfortable stall 
and, as soon as possible, place the slings under the 



TETANUS, OR LOCK-JAW. ^'^'^ 

animal to give it rest, but do so very quietly. Then, if 
you can, give a good physic— 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Powd. Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Or one pound of sulphate of soda. Give in drinking 
water or drench. Keep the bowels open by giving oil 
ov epsom salts, or sulphate of soda in drinking water. 
Keep the wound well greased with belladonna, every 
foui to six hours. Give drachm doses of the solid 
extract of belladonna, every six hours, by Pl^^^^^^ J^ 
between the back teeth, or on tlie back part of the 
tonlue. I have seen good results from giving t^o 
drachm doses of prussic acid every five hours, or the 

following : , , 

Bromide of Potassium .... one drachm. 

Chloral Hydrate one draclmi. Mix. 

Give with two ounces of liquid ammonia aeetatis 
every four or five hours. All remedies of an irritating 
nature applied externally, will do a great deal more 
harm than good. I have never seen any good results 
from thcir^application, on the contrary, lie patient 
invariably grew worse steadily Good '<=™»? "^J'^" 
nuently obtained by covering the upper part of the head 
neck and body with woolen blankets, kept saturated 
with verv hot water. If the treatment is commenced 
, it must be kept up for six or eight hours every day and 
until the acute spasms have subsided. Keep a pail tu 
of pure, cool water in front of the ammal high enongh 
80 it cin reach it without any special effort It may 
not drink much but it will cool its mouth. It the d. - 
ease is occasioned by a wound of any kind, poultice we 
with flaxseed and apply belladonna. One thing I wish 
to impress upon the mind of the attendant; Place the 
patLiUn a d'ark stall, put the slings under 't - soon as 
It is possible, and allow no one to go near it but joui- 



144 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

self — no matter how anxious they may be to see it. 
While going around the patint, go as quietly as possible. 
Do your work as quietly as it can be done, as a little 
frii2;lit will sometimes place a convalescent in a worse 
condition than at first. 



PHRENITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN. 

Causes: — Blows, other injuries to the head, fracture 
of the cranial bones, exj)osure to excessive heat, clots of 
blood floating from some other part of the system and 
lodging in the brain; over-exertion, results of certain 
fevers, indigestion, tumors in the brain, etc. 

Symptoms : — When the membranes covering the brain 
are ait'ected first, the animal will get very uneasy, in 
fact, uncontrollable ; it will jump and plunge about, 
grind its teeth, climb up against the walls, strike with 
its fore feet — in fact, act as if it were crazy ; the breath- 
ing will be accelerated, pulse, full and hard ; occasionally 
sweat will break out over the body. If the brain sub- 
stance alone is involved, the symptoms will vary consid- 
erably from the foregoing. The patient will act dumpish 
and sleepy ; it will w^alk around the stall in a circle until 
it comes in contact with some object, then it will stand 
and press its head, possibly for hours, and may force it 
through ; pulse and respiration will be slow and full, eyes 
will have a dull or glassy appearance, appetite will be 
moderate — sometimes the patient will chew up a mouth- 
ful of hay and hold it in the mouth, possibly drop it out 
again ; it will drink a moderate amount of water ; in a 
few days will look very gaunt. The skin of the head is 
invariably knocked off by their continual pushing and 
knockinii of the head. 



. SPmAL MENINGITIS, ETC. 145 

Treatment : — Put the patient in a comfortable, airy, 
loose box-stall. Bleed thoroughly from the jugular 
vein. Then give, to clean out the bowels, a brisk 
cathartic, 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Powd. Ginger one drachm. 

Water one-half pint. Mix. 

Apply cold water or ice to the head and give, 

Bromide of Potassium two ounces. 

Nitrate of Potassium two ounces. Mix. 

Make into twelve powders and give one every four 
hours. After the acute symptoms have subsided, mus- 
tard mixed with vinegar should be applied to the legs, 
and if the horse is not perspiring, apply heavy blanket j 
to promote perspiration. Give iodide of potassium, two 
drachm doses, twice daily ; also one drachm of calomel, 
once a day. 

If inclined to eat, give the patient soft food and all 
the drinking water it will take. As convalescence pro- 
gresses, a few good blisters applied to the poll will often 
prove beneficial. If caused by a fractured skull, tre- 
phine and raise the bones to their normal position, 
thus relieving the congestion. 



SPINAL MENINGITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE MEM- 
BRANES AND SPINAL CORD. 

The causes of this disease are similar to those of in- 
flammation of the brain, — as external violence, disease 
of the bones of the spinal column, exposure to cold 
rains, spraining of the back by carrying a heavy person ; 
also some specific virus in the blood ; exposure to wet 
and cold when exhausted. 



146 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Symptoms: — These are very different from inflamma- 
tion of the brain. The animal will have muscular 
spasms and partial paralysis of the parts behind the seat 
of the inflammation. In attempting to walk, the feet 
will be jerked up quickly and put down in a similar 
manner ; patient moves with a staggering gait. Some- 
times the pulse is rapid and the breathing greatly accel- 
erated. Although its movements cause the animal 
great pain, it is unable to control them. In the course 
of a few hours, the patient will reel and fall over. 
Though conscious of all surroundings, it will evince 
^reat fear upon being approached, will be unable to 
regain a standing posture alone. Most commonly high 
fever is present, but frequently the animal will sweat 
profusely from intense pain. 

Treatment: — When thoroughly convinced that the 
spinal cord is congested, put the patient in a good, com- 
fortable place with plenty of bedding. Administer a 
physic, 

Barbadoes Aloes one ounce. 

Gentian two drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of water as a drench, to be 
followed with four ounce doses of sulphate of soda, 
morning and evening. Apply cloths wrung out of hot 
water, to the spine. In a plethoric animal, before 
paralysis exists, bleeding will be beneficial, — but not 
after the animal falls down from paralysis. Rub the 
back thoroughly with belladonna, or apply a bel lonna 
plaster. Give every two or three hours half drachm 
doses of tincture of ergot of rye. When certain that 
the congestion and inflammation have subsided, apply 
the actual cautery (red hot iron) from the withers to 
the rump, three lines on each side, an inch apart. Give 
grain doses of strychnia combined with two ounces of 



CONGESTION OF THE SKIN. 147 

alcohol and four ounces of water, every four or five 
hours. Pay strict attention to the diet, giving soft, 
nutritious food. Keep the patient very quiet. 



CONGESTION OF THE SKIN. 

Causes: — Exposure to cold and rains, being driven in 
the mud in the spring and fall, imperfectly fitting har- 
ness and collar, chafing during the summer months, etc. 
Symptoms : — Redness of the skin, attended with itch- 
ing; if between the thighs, the horse will straddle when 
standing or when first driven; if under the collar, the 
horse will keep stretching and bobbing the head ; if in 
other parts of the body, they will invariably rub them- 
selves. 

Treatment : — Bathe the parts well with hot water and 
eastile soap, and apply three times a day — 

Sugar of Lead one ounce. 

Soft Water one pint. Mix. 

Or, apply twice daily, this — 

Tannic Acid one ounce. 

Glycerine eight ounces. Mix. 

Or, white oak bark tea, extract of witchhazel, salt 
and water, all of which will be found beneficial. Give 
two-ounce doses of glauber salts morning and evening. 



SUN-STROKE, OVER-HEATING. 

This disease attacks all kinds of horses during the 
summer heat, but is more prevalent in large cities than 
in small ones, or in the country. The principal causes 
are badly ventilated, filthy stables ; poor food, causing 
derangement of the alimentary canal, and afterwards 



148 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

being driven in the hot sun; over-work and tight-fitting 
collars are also causes. 

S3Tnptoms : — Sometimes the horse will begin to liang 
back and seem stupid, hang his head and want to stop. 
If allowed to stop, he will prop himself with all four 
legs. The breathing is very rapid and heavy ; skin, hot 
and dry ; the head about the poll very hot, nostrils 
widely distended, pupils of the eyes contracted, eyea 
bulged out and very red ; if compelled to move, the ani- 
mal staggers and sometimes falls ; pulse very quick and 
weak. If the patient recovers, it is comparatively use- 
less in the summer, but will do all kinds of work in the 
winter. 

Treatment: — As soon as noticed, take oif the harness 
and collar and apply cold water to the head and along 
the spine. Sometimes it is advisable to apply cold 
water all over the body. If the patient is failing, give 
strong stimulants, as, 

Carbonate of Ammonia.. four drachms. 

Whiskey one pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose ; or. 

Aromatic Spts. Ammonia. . one ounce. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Repeat every hour until the pulse grows slower and 
stronger. 

Bathe and rub the limbs well with alcohol ; or, better 
still, with mustard. Give injections of hot water con- 
taining a little ammonia. When the pupils begin to 
dilate and consciousness returns, give a quart of raw 
linseed oil. 

After reaction has taken place and convalescence is 
established, the following tonic will be of great service. 

Sulphate of Iron two ounces. 

Gentian two ounces. 

Quinine half ounce. Mix. 



IRRITATION OF THE SKIN — PRURITIS — PRURIGO, 



149 



Make sixteen powders. Give one powder morning 
and evening. It is good practice to wear large sponges 
wet with cold water on the top of the head of work 
horses during the heat of the summer, or bathe the head 
and nostrils with cold water fj-equently. 



IRRITATION OF THE SKIN— PRURITUS— PRURIGO. 

This affection is an inflamed condition of the skin, 
causing intense itching. 

Causes : — It is caused by feeding to excess on hay and 
grain, and not being worked regularly and kept in close 




PRURITUS — PRURIGO. 

stables. It is usually seen during the summer months 
but it is not uncommon to observe bad cases during the 
winter, where the stable is kept close and hot. 

Symptoms : — Vesicles and patches of pimples will 
appear around the mane, neck, tail and rump and as the 
itching is quite severe, abrasions of the skin are some- 
times observed, caused either by the biting , of the 
animal or by rubbing against some stationary object. 
Patches of the affected portions will sometimes dry up, 
and dry scabs or a surplus of scaly dandruff will peel 



150 DISEASES OE THE HORSE. 

off. Itching of the tail is very common among horses 
and seemingly becomes a habit witli some. However, 
it is sometimes caused by worms, in the last bowel. 

Treatment : — Feed more moderately, and give either 
steady work or turn out into the barn lot every day, for 
air and exercise. Give one pound glauber salts and 
wash the parts with, 

Oil of Vitriol one ounce. 

Carbolic Acid one ounce. 

Soft Water two quarts. Mix. 

Apply twice daily, or, 

Salicylic Acid one ounce. 

Borax two ounces. 

Alcohol four ounces. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Apply twice daily, or 

Oxide of Zinc four ounces. 

Vaseline four ounces. Mix. 

Apply once or twice daily, or 

Sulphur one pound. 

Oil Tar one pint. Mix. 

Apply once daily, washing it off occasionally with 
soft soap and warm water. If the case is very obstinate, 
give. 

Sulphur eight ounces. 

Powd. Nux Vomica one ounce. Mix. 

Make sixteen powders. Give one powder morning 
and evening. If there are worms in the last bowel, 
inject, 

Oil Turpentine eight ounces. 

Linseed Oil eight ounces. Mix. 

Or take tliree gallons of water, throw in half pound 
of quassia wood, let it steep thoroughly and inject 
occasionally. 



SCRATBHES AND GREASE HEEL. 151 

SCRATCHES AND GREASE HEEL. 

Causes: — Continuous driving; on muddy roads, too 
mucl! washing in cold water and not being rubbed dry; 




SCRATCHES. 

irritating fumes arising from the manure, running in 
dirty, wet barnyards, weak or deficient circulation, 
clipping the hair off' from the heels, cold draughts, snow 
and freezing mud, working in deep, irritating mud, etc. 




sckat(;hes. 
Symptoms: — It is usually noticed in horses of lym- 
phatic temperament, with thick, meaty legs, but may 
attack any horse. Cold, or any irritation of the lym- 
phatic or of the subaceous glands will cause the heels to 



152 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

swell and crack open; small scabs will form and be 
very painful; when first started the horse will lift his 
heels very high, owing to the pain; there will be more 
or less fever, appetite usually good; after being driven 
foi- awhile the horse gets over his lameness. If not 
at (ended to, the case becomes more aggravated, the 
Bwelling increases; deep cracks will break across the 




GREASE HEEL. 

heels, and a yellowish white, foetid discharge will 
come oozing out and run down the heels. Later on the 
cracks become larger and often coalesce, forming a very 
large sore which, when washed, looks red and aggra- 
vated. Then comes what is termed the "grapy" stage 
— small lumps of flesh will raise in bunches very much 
resembling a bunch of grapes. The discharge still con- 
tinues and is very foetid and offensive. 

Treatment : — During the first stage, when the skin 
is swollen and tender, apf)ly a hot bran poultice and 
regulate the diet. Feed on soft food and give at one 
dose, 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Powd. Ginger two drachms. Mix. 

Quite frequently the disease will disappear. But as 
the disease becomes more advanced and small cracks 



FACIAL PARALYSIS. 153 

appear with a discharge, continuous poulticing with hot 
bran will be very beneficial ; also use a solution of, 

Copperas one ounce. 

Soft Water one quart. Mix. 

Or, 

Sulphate of Zinc one-half ounce. 

Sugar of Lead one ounce. 

Carbolic Acid four drachms. 

Distilled Water one quart. Mix. 

Ai)ply three times a day. Also give the physic of 
aloes, and give three times a day, in soft food, a tea- 
spoonful of the following : 

Nitrate of Potassium one ounce. 

Resin one ounce. 

Bi-Carbonate of Soda two ounces. 

Sulphate of Iron one ounce. Mix. 

When the "grapy" stage appears, cut the knobs off 
with a hot iron or with a knife, and aiDi)ly dilute muri- 
atic acid, after which persist in the use of one of the 
former astringent lotions ; or. 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Oxide of Zinc two drachms. 

Carbolic Acid thirty drops. Mix. 

Apply three times a day. A great many practition- 
ers advise cutting the hair short for the axjplication of 
local remedies. I would not advise such a course, as, 
in my experience the short hair invariably proved a 
source of irritation. 



FACIAL PARALYSIS. 



This is caused by badly-litting bridles, bruises, etc. 

Symptoms: — Dropping of the lip on one side, diiB- 
culty in eating and drinking, partial loss of motion and 
sensation on the affected side. 



164 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Treatment: — Give drachm doses of mix vomica three 
times a day. Apply to the side of the face the foHow- 
ing blister, every four or five days, until it has been ap- 
plied four or five times : 

.Cantharides two drachms. 

Red Iodide of Mercury. . ..one drachm. 

Vaseline one and one-half ounces. Mix. 



CHAFING BY THE HARNESS— SADDLE OR COLLAR GALLS- 
—SORE SHOULDERS. 

Chafing or abrasion of the shoulders is very com- 
monly met with in the agricultural districts, and more 
especially so, in the spring of the year. Of late years, 
since the timber industry occupies so little of the atten- 
tion of the farmer, his horses are either in the stable 
or barn lot, the most of the winter. Consequently,, 
when they are put to work at plowing, in the spring, 
their shoulders are soft and tender, and easily chafed or 
galled. The majority of injuries of this kind, come 
from ill-fitting collars, being either too large or too^ 
small, and not infrequently from having a rough, un- 
even surface. The harness sometimes becomes har- 
dened if not frequently oiled, and when placed upon 
the animal, will not fit around the girth. The saddle 
pinching and pressing the skin, on either side of the 
back-bone, will produce sores. 

Treatment: — First, ascertain the cause, if possible, 
then remove it. If the shoulders become galled when 
first put to work, in the spring of the year, which is 
generally the case, look to the collars immediately and 
Bee that they fit perfectly; when the collars are fitting 
nicely and the shoulders are chafing, it is on account of 
the skin being tender ; as the animal i!= generally soft 



MANGE. J 56 

at this season of the year, it sweats profusely ; the 
sweat and dust accumulate on the collar, making it 
rough, and consequently, it irritates and chafes the 
skin. Every noon and evening the collar should be re- 
moved and cleaned, and the shoulders bathed with cold 
water. Continue in this manner until the shoulders be- 
come hardened to their work. If the harness pinches 
the back, place pads under it and oil it frequently to 
render it soft and pliable. The shoulders and back, 
when commencing to gall, should be washed every noon 
and evening with cold water, then wiped dry, and after- 
ward bathed with tea made from white oak bark. If 
there is a raw sore, rest from work as much as possible, 
and while at work, pad the collar so it does not rub the 
sore. The tea of white oak bark will often heal the 
sore, or you may apply, three times a day, with a 
feather, compound tincture of benzoin, or, 

Powd. Alum six ounces. 

Iodoform one ounce. Mix. 

Or, 

Sugar Lead one ounce. 

Sulpliate of Zinc one ounce. 

Soft Water one qviart. Mix. 

Shake well before using; or. 

Carbolic Acid one ounce. 

Raw Linseed Oil fifteen ounces. Mix. 

Any of these preparations will quickly heal the sore, 
provided you keep pressure and friction from irri- 
tating it. 



MANGE. 

At the commencement this is purely a skin disease, 
and is caused by a small insect called acaria, which 
burrows into the skin and breeds. It forms small pus- 



156 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



tules which cause considerable itching. As the pustules 
break, a small scab is formed, and so intense is the itch- 
ing that the horse will rub himself until the hair, and 
frequently the skin, are rubbed off. In severe cases 




SYMPTONS OF MANGE. 

the mane and tail will fall off, leaving the horse a pitia- 
ble object. Mange is very contagious — at least the 
acaria will crawl from one horse to another. It is even 




MANGE. 

communicated to a healthy horse by his rubbing himself 
against a post where a mangy horse has been rubbing. 
Treatment : — The disease is seldom noticed until scabs 
are formed. Tliey should be well oiled with sweet oil, 
and, in twenty four hours, washed with warm water 



LICE. .157 



and castile soap, until the scabs are removed. If it is 
necessary, take a brush to accomplish this. Then ap- 
ply tobacco liquor, prepared by boiling two ounces of 
t-obacco in a quart of soft water. The application 




MANGE INSiSOT. 

should be used three times, with intervals of two weeks 
between each application; or the following liniment 
should be applied : 

Linseed Oil eiglit ounces. 

Sulphur two ounces. 

Oil of Tar four ounces. Mix. 

Apply with a brush and wash off in twenty-four 
hours. If thought necessary, apply a second or third 
time. Regulate the bowels and keep in as good spirits 
as possible. All harness, combs and brushes should be 
saturated with the tobacco liquor. The blankets should 
be boiled and the stable whitewashed, to which should 
be added half pound of chloride of lime to every gallon. 



LICE. 

These are small insects of a low grade, which seldom 
attack horses in good condition, but invariably appear 
on horses in poor condition. The animal will rub itself 



158 DISEASES OE THE HORSE. 

iind the hair will look rough and staring ; there will be 
pallor of the mucous membranes ; sunken eyes ; fre- 
quently an unsteady gait. An examination will reveal 
the cause. Quite frequently horses are kept close to a 
chicken house and become infested with chicken lice; 
these are very small and not easily detected but are 
very troublesome. 

Treatment: — As lice seldom cover the whole body, 
examine and locate the place where they are. Apply 
diluted kerosene oil two or three times and they will 
generally disappear. Or, take one pound of stavesacre 
seeds and two gallons of soft water ; simmer for two 
hours or till reduced to one gallon. Allow to stand 
twenty-four hours ; then apply all over the animal. 
Two applications generall}^ will suffice. Some prefer 
the use of tobacco in the same manner, but I am posi- 
tive that the best results will be obtained from staves- 
acre seed. 



HIDE-BOUND. 



Hide-bound is not a disease but is a symptom of 
some disease, or of neglect. It may be caused by 
starvation, exposure, indigestion, irregular or diseased 
teeth, and by worms. Abuse is a frequent cause, also 
want of proper exercise, irregular feeding, and neglect 
of currying and rubbing, that the skin of the animal 
may be kept clean. 

Symptoms : — The skin sticks as tightly to the body as 
though glued fast ; the ribs show plainly and the skin 
can scarcely be moved from them. The hair looks 
rough and s.ands the wrong way; it is very dry, and the 
skin is dirtv and full of dandruff. 



SIT FAST. 159 

Treatment : — First remove the cause. If the teeth 
are sharij and irregular, take a rasp made for that pur- 
pose and level them down. If from exposure, shelter 
in a warm, comfortable place, and if the want of good 
food is the cause, feed better and groom thoroughly, 
and the horse will soon begin to thrive and the skin will 
loosen. In order to start a thriving condition in many 
horses, it is necessary to give them a physic, and for 
this purpose, a quart of raw linseed oil answers best. 
After the physic has operated, cut the hay for the 
animal and place chop-feed upon it, then scald it either 
with steam or hot water, and give with the food a hand- 
ful of ground flaxseed twice daily. If the manure 
smells badly, give a teaspoonful of baking soda in feed 
or water, once daily, and if the digestive powers are 
low, use the following : 

Powd. Ginger two ounces. 

Powd. Sulphate of Iron. . . two ounces. 

Gentian four ounces. 

Powd. Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Saltpeter four ounces. 

Baking Soda four ounces. Mix. 

Give a teaepoonful two or three times a day. Feed 
npon soft food — if scalded, so much the better. Also 
give regular exercise, either at light work or turn into 
a vacant lot or barn-yard. If it is suspected that 
worms are the cause of the ailment, see treatment for 
worms. 



SIT FAST. 



This condition is brought about by ill-fitting saddles, 
harness not properly adjusted, or badly-fitting collars, 
more especially on the top of the neck ; or by any undue 
friction or pressure by anything the horse is made to 



160 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

wear. Being continuously kept under the saddle, and 
especially when the animal is mounted by a poor rider, 
the skin becomes bruised and calloused and becomes 
partly separated from the healthy skin ; it then assumes 




SIT FAST. 

a tough, leathery, horny form, sinking deeply down into 
the soft tissue and is kept partly alive by the blood 
supply at the bottom. 

Treatment : — The best mode of getting rid of this 
trouble, is to remove it with the knife. Cut it out 
clean, leaving nothing but healthy looking tissue. You 
may experience a little trouble in doing this, as they 
are very sensitive and the animal may strenuously 
resist the operation ; but as there is no danger, be per- 
sistent in removing it, then use the following : 

Sulphate of Iron four drachms. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Or. 

Powd. Alum two ounces. 

lodoioxin four drachms. Mix. 

Or, 

Sulphate of Zinc ^our drachms. 

Sugar of Lead four drachms. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Or, 



ERYSIPELAS. 161 

Carljolic Acid two drachms. 

Listorine one ounce. 

Water seven ounces. Mix. 

Apply two or three times a day. Occasionally wash 
out the wound with warm water and castile soap. 



ERYSIPELAS. 



Causes : — Anything which has a tendency to lower 
the vitality and vitiate the blood — such as diseases of 
the liver or kidneys, for they are great blood purifying 
organs, and any affection of these organs tends to 
impair the blood by leaving within it the effete mate- 
rials intended to be eliminated by them; feeding on 
musty or badly cured fodder, exposure to extreme heat, 
wounds, burns, scalds, bites of insects or reptiles. 

Symptoms: — Usually erysipelas begins with fever, 
quite frequently preceded with a chill; the fever grad- 
ually rising; loss of appetite ; pulse ranging from fifty 
to eighty beats per minute. The skin and the connect- 
me tissues are the seat of the inflammation, which gen- 
erally attacks the hind limbs, though the fore limbs, 
head and neck may be attacked. Owing to the attack, 
the swelling of the skin is sometimes very great. If it 
begins near the foot it runs very rapidly up the limb. 
The swelling is hard, but pits on pressure. In a white 
horse the redness is perceptible, but in horses of any 
other color the redness cannot be seen. Sometimes, 
though not always, the sw elling is painful to the touch. 
Small vesicles appear and discharge a yellowish serum ; 
they then form a small scab and in a few days peel off. 
If for the better, they leave a dry surface ; if for the 
worse, a deep sore, and quite frequently deep cracks 
having a ragged, unhealthy appearance, and disinclined 



162 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

to heal. Sometimes pus will form under the skin, bur- 
rowing into the muscular tissues ; sometimes it is very 
diffuse, and is re-absorbed by the system, when a fatal 
termination may be anticipated. When the swellins; is 
great, the hair invariabl}' drops off and leaves a shining 
surface. 

Symptoms: — Open the bowels thoroughly with— 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Calomel one drachm. 

Powd. Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose; then follow up with tincture 
muriate of iron in half-ounce do^es every two hours. If 
the swelling is edematous or pits on pressure, give — 

Nitrate of Potassium one ounce. 

Iodide of Potassium one ounce. 

Powd. Nux Vomica one ounce. Mix. 

Make into ten powders and give one three times a 
day. If there is much depression, give alcoholic stimu- 
hints ; but if they tend to irritate the skin, stop using 
tlsem. As a local application, cover the swollen part 
with — 

Sulphate of Iron one ounce. 

Laudanum four ounces. 

Soft Water twelve ounces. Mix. 

Apply three or four times a day; or the parts may 
be painted twice daily with tincture muriate of iron, or 
tincture iodine, or the fluid extract of belladonna. 

If pus has formed, make a free incision to allow it to 
escape, and dress the wound and abscess with one 
ounce of permanganate of potassium in one pint of soft 
Mater, twice a day; also use the same solution on 
unliealthy ragged sores; or, 

Carbolic Acid one on nee. 

Nitrate of Silver twenty grains. 

Glycerine .... ten ounces. Mix. 



BUKNS AND SCALDS. 163 

Apply twice daily. When sores break out and 
become aggravated and when abscesses form, they 
should be washed twice a day with hot water and castile 
soap before the dressings are applied. The diet should 
be first-class in every particular but ground feed is 
preferable to solid grain. The animal should be kept 
in a clean, comfortable, airy place. 



BURNS AND SCALDS. 



A great deal depends upon the extent and severity 
of the injury. Slight burns or scalds may be treated by 
using a solution of one-half ounce of carbolic acid to 
one pint of water, applied frequently. But, if the 
burn is very deep, cover over with linseed oil or vase- 
line, to exclude the air. After the pain has ceased, 
open the blisters with a needle and allow the fluid to 
escape. Then press the skin down closely so that, if 
possible, it nuiy adhere. If it does not adhere and an 
oj>en sore results, dress it twice a day with carbolic acid 
five drachms in ten ounces of water; or sulphate of zinc, 
one drachm, in one ounce of vaseline. Or, 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Carbolic Acid one drachm. Mix. 

Frequent washings with castile soap and liot vvater 
are also beneficial. 



INFLAMMATION OF THE FEET, LAMINITIS, FOUNDER. 

This disease lias various causes, such as picking up a 
nail, having a nail driven too close while shoeing, driv- 
ing on hard roads barefooted, drinking cold water when 
heated, eating tco mucli grain, feeding green corn, giv- 



164 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

ing a drastic cathartic, muco-enteritis, or from any 
affection of the alimentary canal or of the air passages. 
Symptoms — When first noticed the patient generally 
will be standing with its feet well under the body, the 
fore feet both pointed forward, and so stiff that it is almost 
impossible to move it, either forward or backward. 




LAMINITIS, OR FOUNDER. 

The fore feet almost invariably are the ones attacked; 
the hind feet are sometimes, but very seldom affected. 
The breathing is greatly accelerated ; temperature varies 
from 103° to 106° F. ; attempts to move the animal 
cause so much pain that it will groan; if forced to 
move, it goes with a jumping, staggering gait, almost 
falling down, and rests very lightly on the heels of the 
front feet. The feet will be very hot and tender, and 
if they are struck with a hammer the horse will groan 
and almost fall down. Sometimes the breathing will be 
so accelerated that the nostrils are distended to their 
fullest capacity. Occasionally only one foot is attacked ; 
in such cases the patient will keep the foot raised the 
most of the time. Sometimes in chronic cases, the feet 



INFLAMMATION OF THE FEET, LAMINITIS, ETC. 165 

contracted at the heels. Sometimes the wall and sole 
become greatly distorted ; the healthy rings around the 
wall of the foot coalesce, the feet grow crooked and are 
become separated ; an effusion takes place between the 
lamina and pedal bone, forcing it down and pressing the 
sole down along with it — sometimes penetrating through 
to the u round. 

Treatment: — Some practitioners prefer hot applica- 
tions to the feet, but my experience has forced me to 
conclude that cold applications are preferable to hot 
ones. Place the feet in a tub of cold water, putting 
straw in the bottom of the tub to ease the feet ; in the 
heated months put ice into the w'ater, and keep the 
patient there for two hours at a time. Do this three or 
or four times a day. When out of a tub, or if a tub 
cannot be obtained, put flaxseed poultices on the feet 
and keep pouring in cold water occasionally. Change 
the poultice every twenty-four hours. Give a physic — 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Powd. Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose. Also prepare and give- — 

Saltpetre sixteen ounces. 

Glauber Salts sixteen ounces. Mix. 

Make into sixteen powders and give one three times 
a day. While the fever is high, give fifteen drops of 
fluid extract aconite every hour or two until the fever 
subsides. After the patient recovers so it can walk 
around, a little exercise on soft ground is beneficial; 
but too much exercise is harmful. Sometimes in the 
acute stage, bleeding from the toe is very beneficial. 
But if this is done, let the blood run freely, though it is 
a practice to which I seldom resort. If properly attended 
to, a large majority of cases will make complete recov- 
ery. After recovery is assured, shoe carefully and 
keep the feet soft and do not put the animal to work 



166 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

too soon. Sometimes it is good treatment to place 
(glingg under the patient, especially when it maintains 
a standing posture, to relieve the feet. If the patient 
chooses to lie down during the attack, bed well and 
allow it to remain in that position. 



CHOKING. 



Choking is most frequently found in horses that are 
very greedy eaters, and consists in the lodgment of dry 
food (most frequently corn or oats) within the throat. 




CHOKING. 

Horses that are fed on roots, such, as carrots, mangels 
or turnips, quite frequently suffer from choking. 

Symptoms. — In many cases the horse will be uneasy 
and the saliva will run from the mouth. If the obstruc- 
tion be in or near the pharynx, the nose will be elevated, 
the patient will malie frequent attempts at coughing 
and frequently if the obstruction be grain, portions of 
it will be ejected through the nostrils in a paroxysm of 
coughing. The breathing will be labored and difficult 
and accompanied by wheezing. If the obBtruction be 



CHOKING, 167 

farther down the throat, the patient will breathe more 
easily and the frothy saliva will be less abundant — 
sometimes entirely absent. 

I have seen horses, where the obstruction was within 
the chest, that had not eaten for a day or more — as the 
owner said " were feeling; a little off,'' — ^l^at had eaten 
more food and thus completely tilled tlie whole of the 
oesophagus. During the whole time they seemed but 
little distressed other than being hungry and unable to 
eat. They would chew hay and drop it out of the 
mouth. Such cases usually terminate fatally. 

Treatment : — If the obstruction be in the pharynx, 
elevate the nose. Put a mouth speculum in the mouth, 
insert the hand, and if possible, remove the object by 
pulling it up. If it be beyond reach and noticeable on 
tlie left side of the neck, an assistant will be of great 
service by pushing it up from the outside. If it cannot 
be gotten in this way, give the patient a little oil, as 
raw linseed, sweet oil, or fresh lard melted; then try 
and work it down. If the o])struction be dry food, as 
oats, corn or hay, it probably will be softened and pass 
down. Sometimes while giving the oil, the horse will 
take a fit of coughing and eject both oil and grain by 
the nostrils. In such cases wait for a few minutes and 
repeat the dose; in that way the grain maybe gotton rid 
of by coughing and the plug will pass on doAvn. If no 
grain is coughed up or the obstruction is down in the 
chest, give eight or ten ounces of melted lard or sweet 
oil and let it remain there for a few hours; the obstruc- 
tion will sometimes pass away. Should it not move, 
place the speculum in the patient's mouth, elevate the 
nose and introduce a probang, which should be oiled 
we]] before using. Pass it down gently, and when you 
com-' ro the obstacle, press quite lieavily and as it starts 



168 



DISEASES OE THE HORSE. 



send it clear into the stomach. Then give a little oil 
and for a few days feed on soft food. 

If you find it impossible to remove the obstruction 
with the probang without seriously injuring the horse 
by rupturing the OBSophagus, and the obstruction can be 
felt on the left side of the neck, take a lancet and cut 
lengthwise of the neck, into the obstruction. Then 
carefully stitch up the oesophagus (or gullet) with cat- 
gut, stitch up the integument (or skin) and feed on 
very soft or .sloppy food for a week or two. Do not re- 
sort to the barbarous method of pushing a wljijj-stock, 
broom handle, or any other hard substance down the 
throat, as injuries to the throat are sure to occur, caus- 
ing an immense amount of troiil)lo and sutl'ering and in 
all probability the loss of the animal. 



CRIB-BITERS, WIND-SUCKERS OR STUMP-SUCKERS. 

This is a habit that is formed principally when the 
young animal is cutting teeth. It is caused by the pain 




CRIB-BITER OR WIND-SUCKER. 

of cutting and shedding teeth. To relieve itself of the 
irritation, the animal catches hold of the manger or any 
other object within reach. After a time, the habit b«- 



POLL EVIL. 169 

comes fixed, and when the animal catches hold of the 
object a gulping sound is heard. It is then sucking air 
into- stomach. 

Any irregularity of the teeth, or decayed teeth, may 
cause a horse to form the same habit. When the habit 
is once formed, it is very hard to break it up. After 
the horse has been sucking wind for a considerable 
time, it causes indigestion and colic. Tliey are unsafe 
horses to own for they may bloat up and die at any 
time. 

Treatment: — Various devices have been used to 
break the habit, and sometimes witli success. Attend 
to the teeth and, after you get them in good condition, 
make a paste of red pepper and flour and daub it on the 
manger: or fasten on the manger a sheep-skin with the 
woolly side out ; or fasten a broad strap around the neck ; 
or fasten some sharp object where the horse is in the 
habit of biting; or place small, revolving rollers just 
above the edge of the manger, so the teeth will slip off. 
Sometimes the habit may be broken by raising the 
tongue and cutting the memt)rane that fastens it to the 
lower jaw, about an inch, or by inserting a steel or sil- 
ver ring through the same membrane and allowing it 
to stay there; the ring to be about three-fourths of an 
inch in diameter. I have seen cases completely cured 
by this method. 



POLL EVIL. 



Poll evil consists of a swelling or an abscess just be- 
hind the ears upon the top and sides of the neck, and 
the irritation extends down to the first two or three 
bones of the cervical vertebrae. When the disease ex- 
tends downward to the bones and affects the joints, the 
animal will carry the head and neck stiff. Among the 



170 DISKASKS OF THE HOKSE. 

many causes of poll evil, are badly fitting, heavy halters 
and bridles, blows from the butt end of the whip, by 
the horse hitting its head against low beams or doors,, 
from too high reining, etc. 




POLL EVIL. 

Symptoms: — The first symptom observed is slight 
stillness of the neck, with a swelling npon tlie poll, 
which is quite hard at first, later on becoming soft and 
fluctuating. The swelling may not increase much in 
size for some time, or it may increase quite rapidly. If 
there is no interference on the part of the attendant, it 
will eventually burst and discharge a whitish matter. 

Treatment: — In the earliest stage, when soreness is- 
present and the swelling has just begun so that it ie> 
quite noticeable, the trouble may be aborted. First, 
give a pfiysic, as, 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Gentian two draciims. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of water, and give a small 
teaspoonful of saltpeter, three times a day, either in 
food, water or as a drench. Then cut off the hair and 
apply the following as a blister : 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Powdered Cantharides. . .two drachms. Mix. 

Apply every fourth day for three times in succes- 
sion. Then grease until well. By this treatment I have 



TOLL EVIL. 171 

seen many cases aborted, and they required no other 
care except avoidance of the original cause. If this 
sliould fail to scatter the enlargement, it will liasten the 
formation of pus. The swelling should then be laid 
open with a knife. Make a bold incision and allow the 
matter to escape ; then examine with a probe, and if no 
sinuses or pockets are found, you then have a simple, 
regular abscess to deal with. Dress the wound with, 

Listerine four ounces. 

Iodoform two drachms. 

Glycerine four ounces. 

Wash the sore with castile soap and hot water and 
apply the medicine twice daily. If, however, while 
probing, you lind pipes or sinuses, keej) on exploring 
until you find them all; then take three or four grain 
quinine capsules, fill them full of corrosive sublimate 
and put one capsule into each pipe; its weight will gen- 
erally carry it down to tlie bottom. The capsule soon 
becomes dissolved and tlie medicine will cut out tlie 
pipes. Grease the hair thoroughly over which the mat- 
ter flows, to keep the matter and medicine from excori- 
ating the skin. After the pipes have come out, use the 
following : 

Zinc. Sulph four draclims. 

Sugar of Lead five drachms. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Or, 

Carbolic Acid half oimce. 

Listerine four ounces. 

Soft Water twelve ounces. INIix. 

Apply once daily, after washing out thorouglily with 
castile soap and hot water. If, after it has liealcd up, 
another swelling ajjpears, you may rest assured that 
you missed one or more of the pijjes. You must then 



172 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

open again and go after what is left. Do not despair, 
for success will crown your efforts, and a complete cure 
will be effected. 



BRUISES. 



Bruises are caused by kicks, bites, falling upon hard, 
rough or uneven substances, etc., resulting in a crushed 
or pumiced condition of the flesh with the skin covering 




■■•^MuUi^i^j,^ 



FOMENTING A BRUISE. 

it remaining unbroken. There is more or less subcutane- 
ous bleeding, which may result in the formation of 
matter and a sloughing of the parts. If the bruise is 
not too severe, the formation of matter may be averted 
by fomentations of hot water, continued for a couple of 
hours, after which bathe freely with whiskey and cam- 
phor. If in a place where bandages can be used, a 
light bandage steeped in saltpeter water ^ should be 



BEUISES. 173 

applied and the animal allowed rest for a few days, 
when the parts will resume their normal condition. If, 
however, the bruise is very severe, there is no other 
alternative save the formation of matter, and it should 
be hastened by the application of poultices of flaxseed 
meal, fried onions, bran, bread and milk, slippery elm 
or hops. While the sloughing of the parts is taking 
place, should there be a foul smell, powdered charcoal 
or iodoform, or a weak solution of carbolic acid, should 
be s})rinkled over the poultice. After the parts have 
ploufihed ofl', discontinue the poultices and use any of 
1 he following lotions: 

Carbolic Acid one ounce. 

Water or Linseed Oil one pint. Mix. 

Or, 

Permanganate of l^otash.four drachms. 

Water one pint. ]\Iix. * 

Or, 

Sulphate Zinc half ounce. 

Sugar Lead half ounce. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Or, 

Iodoform half ounce. 

Powd. Alum four ounces. Mix. 

Apply two or three times a day. If proud flesh 
makes its appearance, cut it out with a knife or apply 
burnt alum. Feed the patient on soft or green food and 
if symptoms of fever present themselves, give half 
ounce doses of saltpetre, three times a day. When the 
fever subsides and the discharge has been great, feed 
the best of nourishing food, with which may be mixed> 

Sulphate of Iron two ounces. 

Powd. Gentian four ounces. 

Powd. Nux Vomica one ounce. Mix. 

Give a teaspoonful three times a day. 



174 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

ABSCESSES. 

Abscesses consist of lu't-niimlations of matter within 
circumscribed walls and may be situated upon any part 
of the body or in the lungs, liver, kidneys, ovaries, Avomb, 
bowels, etc. Tliej^ are classed as acute, and cold or 
clironic abscesses. 

Acute abscesses are most frequently met with in the 
muscular tissues or gland structures, followinji' local 
inflammation; or they may be the results of bruises and 
injuries. The abscesses found most often in horses, are 
those affecting the salivary glands, the result of stran- 
gles or distemper. The glands behind and under the 
jaws are observed to gradually increase in si/je, an I 
become hard, hot, painful, and sensitive to the touch. 
As the abscess gradually increases iu size, pus or matter 
begins to form and in a little while it becomes soft and 
fluctuating. This condition is discovered by pressing 
gently upon the center of the abscess with the fingers ; 
it is then considered coming to a head. A small eleva- 
tion is soon observed from which the hair slips otf and 
is moistened with a yellowish fluid which oozes through 
the skin. In a short time the a])scess breaks, its con- 
tents escape and the cavity gradually fills up by healthy 
granulations. When abscesses form in the muscular 
tissues, they are usually produced by bruises or some 
other form of injury. Sometimes, however, they are 
the result of irregular strangles. 

Whenever it is noticed that abscesses are forming, 
the aim should be to hasten development as rapidly as 
possible, by hot fomentations and poultices. When they 
are very slow in developing, a good stimulating linimeur 
applied to the parts, is advisable, as, 

Spts. Turpentine two ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia. • two ounces. 

Raw Linseed Oil four ounces. Mix. 



COLD ABSCESS. 175 

Apply twice daily. As soon as matter can be felt by 
pressure of the fingers, it will be well to open with a 
«harp knife, as low down as possible, to afford good 
drainage so that the matter may escape. But if not 
fully satisfied that tlie matter is near tlie surface, it will 
be better to encourage the ripening and allow it to open 
itself. An abscess located at a joint, should be allowed 
to open itself, or operated upon l)y a skilled veterina- 
rian. It is unnecessary to scjueeze and pinch abscessen 
when opened. Gentle pressure will remove all the old 
thickened matter, and if inclined to heal too quickly, 
keep it open with a smootli piece of hickory or other 
hardwood, made into a ]>robe. Poultices and fomentar 
tions are often beneficial after the abscess has opened, 
especially if there is much swelling. It is unnecessary to 
inject medicines into abscesses, unless a bad smell comes 
from tlie cavity, then it should l)e washed out with — 

C'arbolic Acid one ouiu'e. 

iSoft Water one quart. iMix. 

Use twice dailv. 



COLD ABSCESS. 



Cold abscess is a term uschI to denote a large swell- 
ing, the result of chronic intlammntion, in the center of 
which tliere is usually a small accumulation of matter. 
These abscesses are generally situated on the neck in 
close proximity to the shoulder joint. When first ob- 
served, the swelling is quite large, and apparently in- 
creasing in size or growing (if the horse is working) un- 
til it assumes enormous ])roportions. It may be slightly 
warmer than the surrounding parts, but is not very 
painful when pressure is applied. The animal instead 
of exhibiting j^ain when moved about, acts as though 
the shoulders were stiff, or there is a stiffness in its 



176 DISEASES OF THE HOKSE. 

movements. When relieved from work, this vast swell- 
ing gradually diminishes in size, until it leaves a large 
hardened mass, very much resembling a tumor, and re- 
maining in that condition for a great length of time. 
There is now neither heat nor soreness and it neither 
grows nor diminishes, unless the animal is put to work, 
when the irritation from the collar will cause it to in- 
flame, and increase in size again, but after a few days 
rest it will gradually recede to the same sized tumor a^ 
before commencing work. 

Treatment: — The treatment as recommended for 
acute abscess, will fail to accomplish anything. We are 
therefore compelled to use more heroic measures. 
First, examine carefully to ascertain if matter is pres- 
ent, which is generally difficult to detect, for it is sel- 
dom that there is over two tablespoonfuls located in the 
center of the abscess. However, whether matter can be 
felt or not, make a deep incis^ion into the center of the 
tumor, all the way through it if necessary, and allow 
the matter to escape. Then, whether matter is found 
or not, saturate a piece of sponge or cotton batting with 
turpentine and force it into the bottom of the cut; allow 
it to remain two or three days to excite the formation 
of matter ; or pack the wound full of sulpliate of zinc 
and plug it for twenty-four hours, then withdraw the 
plug and let it slough out ; or take a red hot iron and 
push it into the bottom of the cut; in fact anything to 
excite an inflammatory action and promote the fornui- 
tion of matter. If the opening is disposed to heal too 
quickly, open it up with some of the former prepara- 
tions. After you have got it suppurating nicely, en- 
courage it by applying poultices of flaxseed meal, 
bran, boiled turnips, bread and milk, slippery elm, etc. 
With this mode of treatment you will dispose of it and 
leave the surface smooth. 



TUMOK I>i THE FALSE NOSTRIL. 117 

NASAL POLYPUS, OR NASAL TUMORS. 

These pear-shaped tumors are frequently found in 
the nasal chamber and may be attached anywhere along 
the nasal canal. They are, however, generally attached, 
high up in the nostril and hang by a slender neck. 

Symptoms : — They sometimes grow down far enough 
to be observed protruding from the nose. The breath- 
ing is obstructed more or less in that nostril. There is 
bulging of the nostril on the affected side if the tumor 
is large, according to its size. It produces a snuffling 
sound while breathing and sometimes a discharge from 
the nose. 

Treatment: — Removal of the tumor can be accom- 
plished by folding a copper wire through a gas pipe. Slip 
the wire over the tumor and pass it and the pipe up, 
until you reach the top of the tumor, then draw the 
■wire up tightly against the pipe and twist the tumor 
oft'. Or if an ecrasure is obtainable, pass it up over the 
tumor and twist it off; or take a pair of forceps and 
pass them up to ite attachment, then sieze it and twist 
it oft'. There will not be bleeding enough to do any 
harm. However, the blood may be stopped, by injecting 
up the nostril a solution of alum water or a solution of 
sulphate of iron, or the tincture of iron, or by forcing a 
plug of wool up the nostril, having a string attached to 
it by which to draw it out when the bleeding stops. 



TUMOR IN THE FALSE NOSTRIL. 

Small tumors are often observed in the false nostril 
(which is a small pouch just within the nostril and 
appears like a loop or fold of skin). These tumors are 
very slow of growth and contain a cheesy matter. They 
are usually about the size of a walnut and while they do 



178 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

not cause any pain, they are a blemish and sometimes 
become so large that they cause ditRcult breathing when 
the animal is put to severe exercise. They are observ- 
able on tlie outer side of the nostril, but by inserting 







TUMOR IN THE NOSTRIL. 

the finger up the nose, they will appear much larger on 
the inside. No danger need be apprehended in open- 
ing them and this can be done either from the outside 
or inside of the nostril, the latter being preferable. 
Pass the knife up the inside of the nostril and when the 
tumor is reached, make a free incision; then squeeze 
the matter out and nature will generally perform tlie 
rest. Or you may syringe the cavity with — 

Sulphate of Zinc two drachms. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Inject once daily for a few days. When the cut is 
made, blood sometimes flows freely for a short time, but 
this is of no consequence ; it will soon cease. 



PHARYNGEAL POLYPUS, OR TUMOR IN THE THROAT. 

This is just the same kind of tumor as appears within 
tlie nostrils, only it is situated in the upper part of the 
throat. If it is located at the opening at the back part of 
tlie mouth, when the animal takes a drink, it is liable 
to drop into the larynx or upper part of the air channel, 
causing alarming symptoms by partially shutting off its 
breathing. ' Respiration is then accomplished with the 



WOUNDS ABOUT THE NOSTRILS. 179 

greatest difficulty ; efforts are made at coughing ; the 
animal chokes until it falls upon its knees or falls down 
completely, when the tumor is generally dislodged from 
the larynx. The animal then breathes freely and 
appears as though there was nothing wrong. These 
frequent and sudden attacks, especially while drinking 
or eating, followed by almost instantaneous recoveries, 
should lead to an examination of the throat, which is 
done by holding the mouth open and passing the hand 
back into the throat, where the tumor will be found. If 
within reach, remove in the manner advised for remov- 
ing nasal polypus. When the removal is accomplished, 
feed wholly upon soft food, for two weeks and after 
each feed, give a few swallows of water, then pour some 
alum water into the mouth and allow it to run over the 
sore. 



WOUNDS ABOUT THE NOSTRILS. 

Wounds around the nostrils are quite a common 
occurrence, and are generally caused by catching upon 
a nail or hook of some description, bites from other 
horses, or by running against some object, etc. As 
quickly as possible after the accident, the wound should 
be stitched together. No loose parts should be cut off 
and thrown away, but everything placed in its proper 
position. The skin around the nostrils is very thin and 
easily stitched, consequently any kind of a needle and 
any kind of white thread will answer. If not immedi- 
ately given attention, the wound may swell considera- 
bly and difficulty may be experienced in getting the 
edges in direct opposition. .If possible, place the 
stitches quite closely together. Occasionally a nostril 
is so badly lacerated, that it is with difficulty the parts 
are brought together, and then a blemish may result. 
After the parts have been brought together, and secured 



180 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

with stitches, the animal should be tied so that it can- 
not rub the wound, for ten days or two weeks, and in 
the meantime keep the parts clean, and use. 

Carbolic Acid four drachms. 

Soft Water one pint. Mix. 

Apply twice daily, or dust it with iodoform once 
daily ; or. 

Sugar Lead four drachms. 

Sulphate Zinc two drachms. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Apply morning and evening. After the parts ad- 
here firmly, cut the stitches and carefully draw them out. 



NETTLE RASH OR SURFEIT. 

This is a frequent form of skin disease in fhe horse, 
and is caused from a sudden change of diet. It is fre- 




SURFEIT. 

quently observed when horses are first fed upon grass. 
It may also be caused by sudden changes in the weather, 
taking a drink of cold water when heated, worms in the 
intestines, and is sometimes connected with the shed- 
ding of the hair. 



EmGWORM. 181 

Symptoms : — The lumps rise quickly and appear on 
any part of the body, sometimes covering nearly the en- 
tire body, head and neck. The eyelids may be closed 
and the lips greatly thickened. Sometimes the nostrils 
are swelled nearly shut. The swellings are unequal in 
size, varying from a marble to a saucer and are flat 
upon their surface. It may be attended with diarrlioea 
or slight colicky pains. The eruption breaks out very 
suddenly, the whole skin being covered in a short space 
of time, and it often disappears just as rapidly as it 
came, or it may linger for five or six days. 

Treatment : — This is very simple and consists in clean- 
ing out the bowels with, 

Powd. Aloes seven drachms. 

Powd. Gentian two drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of water. Also give one 
ounce daily of glauber salts, for a week. Apply to the 
skin twice daily. 

Sugar Lead two ounces. 

Soft Water one quart. Mix 



RINGWORM. 



Ringworm is most frequently seen in young horses 
that have been poorly kept through the winter and 
spring. It appears at the time of shedding and is a 
parasitic growth of a contagious nature, sometimes 
attacking several horses in the same herd. It may be 
communicated to other animals and also to attendants. 

Symptoms : — It commences in a small pimple, at first, 
where the parasite has established itself. It then begins 
to form a circle which continues to spread daily. The 
hairs over the alfected part stand erect, split up, break 



]82 DIFEASKS OF TFIK liOKSE. 

off and fall out, leavinir a bare spot whicli is covered 
with a greyish scruff or dandruff', very much resembling 
the coarse hulls of Avheat bran. During its progress, the 
disease is not confined to one spot but may develop on 




RINGWORM. 

several parts of the body at the same time. If allowed 
to run undisturbed, it may prove very troublesome, or 
recovery may take place spontaneously within a couple 
of months. 

Treatment : — Clip the hair closely over the affected 
parts, then wash with soft soap and warm water ; dry 
the parts thoroughly and paint with acetic acid or tinc- 
ture of iodine, twice daily until cured. Should tliese 
remedies fail after applying ten days, apply the follow- 
ing once daily : 

Oorosive Sublimate half drachm. 

Soft Water one pint. Mix. 



FISTULOUS WITHERS. 



This disease very much resembles poll evil, only it is 
located upon the shoulders, and is also very obstinate 
to treat. It usually comes from a bruise, from the 



CASTRATION. 



183 



saddle,, from rolling, or striking the top of the shoulders 
against something; for instance, against the top of a 
low stable or shed. 




FISTULOUS WITHERS. 

Treatment : — As soon as noticed, apply the same rem- 
edies as for poll evil, and make a dependent orifice to 
allow the pus to escape, treating the orifice as directed 
for the sinuses in poll evil. 



CASTRATION. 



There are various methods of performing this opera- 
tion, but all tend to the same purpose, viz. : removing 
the testicles and preventing hemorrliage. 

First cast the horse and confine him closely and 
tightly, drawing the hind feet well up along the sides. 
Have a good assistant to hold the head. Take hold of 
the testicle (always taking the smaller one first) and 
raise it well up. Hold it firmly and make a bold cut 
about three inches long, close to the dividing line of the 
testicles. ^ Then take hold of the testicle and cut off the 
white membrane at the back part of the testicle, but do 
not cut the spermatic cord or artery. Then if the ecra- 
seurs are used, apply them and smash off the cord. If 



184 DISEASES OF THK liOllSE. 

("he clamp is used, fasten it. on tighly and tie with a 
stout cord. The clamps should be grooved so tliey will 
have a firmer hold. Then cut oft' the cord and testicles, 
about a half inch from the clamp. Some prefer ligat- 
ing, which, is simply cutting out the testicle and tying 
the cord with a silk thread, to prevent hemorrhage. 

If the testicles are not down in the scrotum, the 
horse is called a ridgeling. 

If one testicle is down and the other is not, the one 
that is not down should be procured first. In order to 
get it, cast the horse and tie his hind feet close up aloiig 
his sides. Then roll the patient upon his back and cut 
through the scrotum as if the testicle were there. Oil 
your hand and pass it up through the internal abdom- 
inal ring, where you will almost invariably find the 
testicle. Take hold of it firmly, draw it out and cas- 
trate by any of the usual methods. 

If you do not find it between the internal and exter- 
nal abdominal rings, pass the hand on up tlirough the 
external abdominal ring and you will find it, if he has 
one. Seize it, draw it out and take it oft' by any of the 
usual methods. 

My preference is for the ecraseur, an instrument in- 
vented by M. Chassaignac, of Paris. 

Take the opposite testicle in the same manner and the 
operation is complete. Always cut well down toward 
the sheath, to allow the pus to escape freely to prevent 
any unnecessary swelling. If the clamps are used, re- 
move them in twenty-four hours and turn the horse out, 
or put him at moderate work, and he will do much bet- 
ter than if standing in the stable. 

About the third day, run your finger up around the 
cord and break oft' any attachment, so that it will not 
adhere too Ioav down, and thus prevent scirrhus cord 
from forming. 



BLEEDING AFTER CASTRATION. J 85 

Be careful before operating, to examine and see tliat 
the liorse is not ruptured. If a rupture should exist, cas- 
trate by ^vhat is called the covered method, which con- 
sist, in cutting through the skin only, being careful not 
to cut through the tunics or coverings of the testicle. 
Then castrate with the clamps. Place the clamps over 
the covering of the testicle, the testicle included, and 
•clamp tightly. Then cut off the coverings and testicles 
together and allow the clamps to stay on until they 
come off' of their own accord. If the bowels should 
come out, return them and stitch up the internal abdom- 
inal ring with cat-gut. Then stitch up the scrotum, 
leaving a small opening for the escape of pus, and the 
■operation will be complete. 



BLEEDING AFTER CASTRATION. 

Bleeding from the incisions in the scrotum, from the 
«mall blood vessels severed and especially from the 
small artery at the back part of the cord sometimes 
occurs in warm weather and may appear quite serious 
No "fears need be entertained, as it seldom lasts only a 
few minutes and is easily stopped by splashing cold 
w^ater into the wound. 

Bleeding from the artery in the front part of the cord 
may be attended with danger, when the necessary pre- 
caution has not been taken to fasten it, to prevent 
bleeding. In such cases, the end of the cord should be 
found and the artery tied with a strong thread. If the 
end of the cord cannot be procured, pack the parts 
thoroughly with cotton batting or wool, which may be 
saturated with tincture of muriate of iron. Shove well 
«p into the wound; a blood clot may be formed in this 



186 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

manner and thus stop tlie bleeding. Allow the packing- 
to remain two days, then withdraw it gentl}' and but 
little danger need be appreliended. 



PHYMOSIS AND PARAPHYMOSIS. 

Phymosig consists in the glans penis becoming envel- 
oped in the prepuce, thus being hidden from view, and 
forming a soft, glazy swelling. It most frequently hap- 
pens from an injury or as the result of castration. 

Paraphymosis consists in the prepuce forming a con- 
striction around the penis, just behind the glans. Tlie 
glans penis will then be visible and frequently greatly 
swollen. It also occurs from the results of castration, 
and from injuries of any description. 

The treatment for phymosis, consists in applying hot 
fomentations and scarifying. When paraphymosis 




PAKALYSIS OF THE PL'XIS. 

exists, apply hot fomentations and scarifying; alsO' 
catch hold of the tumor and evert it by forcing it back 
through the constriction, then place it back into the 
sheath and place pledgets of cotton batting greased with 
vaseline, into the sheath, to prevent the penis from 
coming out. Usiuilly within a few days the swelling. 



AMPUTATION OF THE PEKIS. 387 

disappears and the trouble is over. Sometimes the 
swelling is so great that it cannot be everted immedi- 
ately ; when such is the case, scarify and press the blood 
and serum out as much as possible, place a bandage 
around the body and suspend the penis to relieve the 
weight, occasionally pressing out the blood and serum, 
and in a few days you will be able to evert it, when a 
speedy recovery will follow. 



AMPUTATION OF THE PENIS. 

It is very seldom that we are called upon to perform 
this operation. But occasionally it has to be done to 
save the patient and sometimes to be rid of the un- 
sightly appearance, which greatly depreciates the value 
of the horse. 

Some of the causes justifying such an operation are 
paralysis of the penis, caused by blows from the whip or 
kick from a mare during service ; cancerous growth upon 
the penis; or anything which causes the penis to hang 
pendulous, with inability to retract it within the sheath. 

The operation is performed by casting the animal 
and getting him under control. Commence to amputate 
by making a circular incision down to the urethra (or 
canal for the passage of urine. ) Next cut the tissue off 
from the urethra for about an inch, which you must 
leave. Then cut off the urethra. If any small arteries 
present themselves, ligate them. Sprinkle powdered 
per sulphate of iron upon the remaining part and allow 
the patient his freedom. Insert the catheter before 
operating and allow it to remain during the operation. 
Pass the catheter every day, until the wound is healed. 



188 



DISEASES OF TUE liOKSE. 



HERNIA, OR RUPTURE. 

Hernia is the protrusion, either of the bowels or of 
the mesentary through a natural or unnatural opening 
out of the abdominal cavity. There are several kinds of 
hernia, the most important of which I shall mention 
here. 

Umbilical hernia occurs when the opening of the 
umbilical cord passes into the abdomen, which fails to 




HERNIA OF THE UTERUS OR WOMB. 

close up, and tlie aperture continues to increase in size. 
It is invariably seen in young colts, and, if it fails to 
close apply a bandage and keep it on for some time, A 
cure will generally be effected ; if not, and the colt is a 
year old, fasten on a pair of clamps and allow them to 
slough off, or inject hypodermically, a solution of salt 
water in a few places around the base of the tumor; 



HEKNIA, OR RUPTURE. 189 

or another method and one that is very effectual, is to 
cut off the hair over the tumor and apply nitric acid 
enough to barely moisten the skin. Either of these set 
up a deep-seated adhesive inflammation and close up 
the opening. 

Inguinal or scrotal hernia, consists in the passage of 
the bowels or mesentery down through the abdominal 
ring, into the scrotum. If in an entire horse, cut by the 
covered operation (see castration). If in a gelding, 
either open it up, stitch up the abdominal ring and 
then clamp, or, gather up as much of the scrotum as is 
possible and clamp, first returning the bowels, and 
allow the clamp to remain until it sloughs off". A cure 
will most generally be effected. 

Ventral hernia consists in an abrasion of the abdom- 
inal walls, allowing the bowels to escape through to the 
skin and forming tumors of various dimensions. It is 
readily recognized by its disappearance upon pressure, 
and almost immediate return on being released from 
pressure; by its softness and tlie gurgling sound trans- 
mitted by the bowels. If the rupture is small, return 
the bowels and fasten on a clamp, allowing it to slough 
off: or, bandage tightly when first noticed; or use some 
of the methods as given in umbilical hernia. Another 
method is to cast the animal, then return the bowels, 
cut through the skin and stitch up the abdominal walls 
and apply a broad bandage. 

Diaphragmatic hernia is when the bowels pass 
through a rupture of the diaphragm, and press upon the 
lungs. If any quantity of the boAvels pass through, the 
breathing will be difficult and a terrible gurgling, 
wheezing commotion will be heard on applying the oar 
to the chest. In such cases there is no remedy and tlio 
patient will very soon die. If the rupture be small and 
a very small portion of the bowels protrude through the 



190 DISEASES OF THE HOUSE. 

diaphragm, the pain may be very intense l)ut that 
terrible sound around the lungs will be wanting and, if 
kept quiet on opiates, the bowels may return and the 
patient do welL 

In strangulated hernia, wiien the bowels 1)ei'omc 
entangled in the mesentery, completely shuttiiig oil' the 
passage, death is almost inevitable. 



ANEURISM. 



The term aneurism is used to denote the rupture or 
dilation of an artery, forming a fluctuating tumor, dis- 
appearing on pressure, but immediately returning. It 
may be caused by hard work or by a hard, straining pull. 
By pressing the fingers upon the tumor, the pulsation 
may almost always be felt. 

Treatment : — If the tumor is visible and can be oper- 
ated upon, cut down and tie the artery at either side of 
the tumor, which should then be dissected out. After- 
wards treat as an ordinary wound. But if the artery 
be very large, you had better let it alone. 



SEEDY TOE. 



This term is used to denote an unhealthy condition 
of the foot, wherein the wall and sole of the foot partake 
of a mealy or dry, crumbling nature, thus separating 
them from the sensitive lamina of the os pedis, or bone 
of the foot. It is principally caused from laminitis but 
sometimes by a large clip being fastened to the front 
part of the shoe and being hammered down hard on the 
wall of the hoof. It may also be caused by an ill-fitting 
shoe being irregular upon its bearings upon the wall 
and sole at the toe. 



CORNS. 



Treatment : — Cut out the diseased parts and shoe with 
a bar shoe ; ;!ii 1 pud it in tlie crevices to prevent dirt 
from "jetting in and accumulating. 



CORNS. 

At first tliese consist of a simple bruise of the sole oi" 
the foot and are usually found in the inner quarter of 
the fore foot, thou«::;h they are sometimes found in the 
outer quarter. Some authors consider them to be 
horny tumors, but such I could never find. However, I 
am inclined to believe that, from the constant irritation, 
they are the cause of inRammation of the lateral carti- 
lages and thus of tlie formation of side-bones. Some- 




CORXS. 

times the corns suppurate and if an exit is not made for 
the pus to escape by, it ^Yill cause a bulging of the coro- 
net and will break and discharge there ; or the pus will 
keep burrowing down toward the toe and thus separate 
the wall from the sensitive sole. Bad shoeing, or allow- 
ing the shoes to remain on too long, are the principal 
causes. 

Symptoms: — Heat and lameness in the affected foot, 
and invariably pointing it forward; heat and tender- 
ness around the affected quarter, and a sulky stumbling 
gait when driven. If it is a suppurating corn, the horse 
will scarcely put the foot to the ground and, if it does, 
will merelv rest it on the toe. Upon tapping the quar- 



192 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

ter of the foot with a hammer, the animal generally 
evinces pain ; also pressure from a pair of pincers will 
cause more or less flinching, and by taking ofi' the shoe 
and paring down the quarters, blood streaks to a 
greater or less degree will be observed. 

Treatment : — Take oflF the shoe and poultice the foot 
with ground flaxseed, or bran, for twenty-four hours ; 
then pare down the corn until the sole between the bar 
and wall is compressible ; then place a sponge saturated 
with crude oil or a seventy-five per cent, solution of car- 
bolic acid over the corn and nail on the shoe, retaining 
the sponge in position and applying the crude oil or car- 
bolic acid solution once or twice a week ; or shoe with a 
bar shoe, using the sponge as directed. You may paint 
the wall and sole of the foot with crude oil once or twice 
a week, but avoid letting it get up into the hair around 
the coronet. If you suspect a suppurating corn, cut 
down and allow the matter to escape, then remove the 
dead horn as far around as the pus cavity extends. 
Afterwards apply compound tinct. benzoin twice a day, 
or tincture of iodine once daily. As soon as new horn 
commences to form, place a leather or felt pad over the 
bottom of the foot and shoe with a bar shoe. 



THRUSH. 

The principal causes of thrush are filth from stand- 
ing in manure and urine in the stable, from poulticing 
with cow-dung, from wading around in a filthy barn- 
yard, from grease-heel and scratches, and from hard 
work on rough, stony roads, causing bruises to the frog. 

Symptoms : — There is a foetid discharge from the 
cleft of the frog, only in severe cases causing lameness 
and a feverish foot. 



CAMKEK. 193 

Treatment : — First, remove the cause and keep in a 
clean, dry place ; remove all ragged portions of horn 
and fill the crease in the frog with calomel a few times, 
and a cure is generally effected ; or use powdered sul- 
phate of copper or burnt alum. If allowed to run un- 
disturbed, it may develop into canker. This latter dis 
ease of the foot, is due to a vegetable parasite which 
not only destroys the sole and frog, but invades the 
deejjer structures and prevents the natural and healthy 
growth of the horn substance, which usually repairs an 
injury to these parts. 



CANKER. 

Causes : — As it is due to a parasite, certain condi- 
tions must present themselves before the parasite com- 
mences its work. As it is rarely ever seen in high, dry 
districts, it is quite evident that moisture paves the 




CA^SKEK. 

road for the germ to travel in. Among the many causes 
are filth from standing in manure and urine, when the 
frog or sole is injured ; also from poulticing injuries, as 
pricks from nails, with cow-dung, or allow^ing them to 
run in filthy barnyards ; also working on muddy roads 
and grazing on low% marshy pastures ; from grease heel. 



194 DISEASES OE THE HOESE. 

Symptoms : — Canker is generally confined to one foot, 
although all the feet may be attacked at the same time. 
When the disease follows an injury, which it usually 
does, and the soft tissues are involved, they show no in- 
clination to heal ; on the contrary, there is secreted from 
the inflamed parts, a foul smelling watery discharge, 
which gradually undermines the surrounding healthy 
horn and wliich, if not checked in its course, will com- 
pletely destroy the whole frog and sole. Rapid growths 
spring out from the frog and sole, of a soft, spongy, un- 
healthy nature, and, if cut off, may grow from one to 
two inches in length in twenty-four hours. When cut 
close up to the foot, they bleed quite profusely. There 
is an offensive discharge and the disease stubbornly 
resists treatment. Lameness may at first be very slight, 
])ut as the disease advances, it will be a prominent 
symptom. 

Treatment : — First, remove to a clean, dry place, then 
cut out all of the diseased tissues or until it bleeds 
freely, pare down the sole quite thin next to the canker, 
removing all of the sole and frog that covers diseased 
part?. Next put on a shoe with quite a wide web. 
Then take some tow and saturate it with muriate of 
iron and cover the diseased part, and apply pressure by 
slipping sticks under the web of the shoe ; it is very 
essential to apply heavy pressure upon the diseased 
parts. Medicines seemingly lose their force when ap- 
plied for a few days in succession. It is therefore nec- 
essary to change from one remedy to another quite fre- 
quently. Choose any from the following list : Sulphate 
of copper, sulphate of zinc, sulphate of iron, chloride of 
zinc, quicklime, chloride of antimony, creosote, calomel, 
carbolic acid, nitric acid, sulphuric acid, corrosive sub- 
limate, nitrate of silver, or caustic soda. You may mix 
any one of these, equal parts, with animal charcoal, but 



PRICKS FROM NAILS. 195 

very often you will be compelled to use the most severe 
remedies, undiluted. It will try your patience, but be 
persistent, and when you notice healthy horn commenc- 
ing to form, cease using very severe remedies. From 
commencement to finish, the foot should be dressed once 
in twenty-four hours, bearing in mind tliat pressure 
should be applied continuously throughout the course of 
treatment. 



PRICKS FROM NAILS. 



This is of frequent occurrence from the carelessness 
of the horseshoer or from the nail splitting while being 
driven ; also from horses picking up nails while being 
driven, or while running at large — more frequently 
from the latter than from the former. 

Symptoms: — Lameness, heat and tenderness in the 
foot atiected. If a nail splits when the smith is driving 
it, he will notice it at once from the horse flinching. If 
the nail be withdrawn and the owner not informed, the 
patient in a few days may be very lame and suppura- 
tion may take place before the real cause is found out; 
there will be heat and tenderness present. By tapping 
the foot with a hammer, you may find the exact place. 
Or, if a nail is driven close enough to press the sensi- 
tive lamina", the patient may not go lame for a few 
days, then it will l)e very lame, frequently holding the 
foot from the ground or merely resting it upon the toe. 
By tapping the foot with a hammer you will discover 
the spot, when you hit the nail that is pressing. Or, if 
the patient has picked up a nail and goes lame, by 
examining tlie foot you will find either the nail penetrat- 
ing the foot or the place whence it was withdrawn. 



196 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Treatment : — If from a split nail or one driven too close, 
draw it out and poultice the foot for a few days with 
ground flaxseed; a cure will usually be effected. 
But if it suppurates, make an opening and allow the pus 
to escape, and treat as a suppurating corn (see corns). 
If the patient has picked up a rusty nail and you have 
withdrawn it, cut a hole into the bottom of the foot 
where the nail entered, about the size of a nickel and fill 
the opening with tincture of iodine, two or three times 
a day ; but if the foot is very much inflamed, poultice 
for a day or two, also applying either tincture of iodine 
or Friar's balsam to the wound. If suppuration has 
taken place, remove all loose or dead tissue and wash 
out thoroughly with castile soap and hot water. Then 
dry it out and apply Friar's balsam or tincture of 
iodine, and protect the foot from dirt and filth. It is 
sometimes necessary to remove all of the frog and 
sometimes the sole. Be very careful if the horse has 
picked up a rusty nail, as tetanus, or lockjaw frequently 
ensues; also extensive inflammation and sloughing 
around the coronet and loss of the hoof, which in the 
majority of cases, renders the animal worthless. 



QUITTOR. 

The most frequent causes of quitter are horses calk- 
ing themselves and catching cold, suppurating corns, 
pricks from nails, bruises, gravel working up through 
the feet, disease of the lateral cartilages, also quarter 
cracks, etc., etc. 

Symptoms : — First a tender swelling around the cor- 
onet, bursting after a while and discharging a whitish 
fluid and showing no evidence of drying up or healing. 

By probing, you will find fistulous openings running 
down into the foot in different directions. 



GRAVEL IN FOOT. 107 

Treatment : — If much inflammation exists and a visible 
buliiing of the coronet, lance it and apply flaxseed poul- 
tices for a few days. Then into each sinus inject twice 
daily the following : 

Zinc Sulphate one drachm. 

Sulphate of Copper one drachm. 

Water four ounces. Mix. 

After you have followed this up for about a week, 
and the foot is almost healed, stop the injections and 
apply Friar's balsam twice daily until a cure is effected. 
If the disease affects the lateral cartilages, or if side- 
bones are formed and they are affected, they may have 
to be removed. 

Occasionally the sinuses burrow down deep into the 
soft tissues and a fistulous opening is established, which 
will not yield to the former treatment but will require 
more heroic measures. In such cases, fill the sinus full 
of corrosive sublimate, pounding it well in ; allow it to 
remain for two days, then take it out and apply carbolic 
salve until well. 



GRAVEL IN FOOT. 



The feet of horses are often affected by a small 
gravel encased between the sensitive and insensitive 
parts. '. It may become pressed in through an opening 
made in paring out corns, or into a large nail hole, or 
into the opening made from paring out the sole, from 
treading on a nail or being forced through a quarter- 
crack ; or by continuous pressure while traveling, a 
gravel may be forced through the parts where the sole 
and wall of the foot unite ; or by being forced up 
between the frog and bars, etc. In whatever manner it 
gains admission to the sensitive parts, it causes inflam- 
mation and sloughing of the surrounding portions. 



198 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Symptoms: — Lameness is a predominant symptom. 
If there be an opening, it will present a dirty appear- 
ance, look black and unhealthy and have a fcetid smell. 
Upon tapping on the parts with a hammer, the animal 
will evince great pain. If much matter is formed, it is 
liable to work up and break around the top of the hoof 
close to the hair, when the lameness will partially or 
wholly subside. 

Treatment: — First wash the parts thoroughly, then 
enlarge the opening by paring away the hoof, to make 
room to remove the gravel ; examine very carefully to 
avoid pushing it in farther. AVhen in contact with the 
gravel, it will be readily recognized by its sound and 
hardness to the touch. Work around it and dig it out as 
carefully as possible. Then wash the parts perfectly 
clean and inject into the wound twice daily — 

Carbolic Acid two drachms. 

Water half pint. Mix. 

Or, 

Sulphate of Zinc four drachms. 

Water half-pint. Mix. 

, Apply a hot linseed meal or bran poultice until the 
fever and lameness subside, after which, if the opening 
is protected to prevent dirt from getting into it, the 
animal may be put to work, still applying the aforesaid 
lotion if possible, until the parts are healed. 



PUMICED FOOT. 



This is a condition wherein the horny sole becomes 
separated from the sensitive sole or laminte, by an effu- 
sion that accumulates as the result of inflammation of 
the parts. The bottom of the foot, especially toward 
the toe, crumbles away, exposing the sensitive tissues. 



BRUISES OF THE FROG. 199 

It is generally caused by laminitis or founder when 
proper treatment has not been applied. The coffin-bone 
tips down at the toe causing pressure upon the sole, and 
prevents the formation of new horn. Other conditions 
may cause pumiced sole, but, as a rule, not to the ex- 
tent as does founder. Punctured wounds of the feet 
and bruises of the sole occasionally cause an exudation, 
separating the sensitive from the insensitive parts, but 
the soft tissues are seldom exposed because new horn 
is developed, completely taking the place of that which 
has been separated. 

Symptoms : — Exposure of the sensitive parts can 
readily be recognized. If it has not reached that stage, 
tlie foot will become convexed, or bulge down instead of 
being concaved or hollow. The sole of the foot, espe- 
cially at the toe, readily crumbles away and there is 
lameness very similar to that of founder. 

Treatment: — This disease is incurable. If the toe 
pushes through, put the animal out of its misery. If 
the sole is convexed, by careful shoeing, keeping the 
pressure off the sole, and by keeping the feet cool, the 
animal may do light work on soft ground, but should 
never be driven on hard roads. 



BRUISES OF THE FROG. 

Causes : — Bruises of tlie frog usually occur from 
horses stepping upon rough, hard, frozen ground, or 
from travelling upon newly macadamized roads, thereby 
getting stones wedged in between the shoe and frog, 
which are frequently overlooked, and the frog becomes 
badly bruised. Flat feet, with low heels, are the best 
subjects for bruises. Outs through the frog, from step- 
ping upon glass or any other substance causing similar 
injury, are liable to cause suppuration beneath the frog. 



200 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Symptoms; — Lameness, in proportion to the extent of 
the injury involving the sensitive parts. If the injury 
is quite severe, the animal walks wholly upon the toe or 
raises the foot completely and hobbles along on three 
legs. When the horse is standing quietly, the limb is set 
forward and flexed at the ankle, the toe resting upon 
the ground. Upon examining the foot, the injury may 
be detected, but if no opening exists, the matter will be 
observed Working back toward the heels, seeking a soft 
place where it can break through and escape. The horn 
then becomes detaclied at its connection with the skin 
and looks somewhat white and bleached. As soon as 
the pus escapes, the lameness diminishes. 

Treatment : — When lameness is first observed, exam- 
ine the bottom of the foot carefully and if no puncture 
is discovered, bathe the foot in cold water to prevent 
the formation of matter; but if matter has already 
formed, pare the frog and sole quite thin to relieve 
pressure, make an opening to allow the pus to escape, 
then poultice for a few days with linseed meal, and pour 
tincture of iodine into the opening twice daily. If the 
pus has loosened much of the frog, remove the part that 
has become detached, with the knife. If the pus has 
worked its way up and has broken, and is discharging 
near the hair, a great portion of the frog has become 
separated and should be removed at once, after which 
dress three times daily with compound tincture of ben- 
zoin, tincture iodine or spirits turpentine, and if obsti- 
nate, with — 

Chloride of Zinc one ounce. 

Soft Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Apply once or twice daily and pad with cotton bat- 
ting. As soon as a thin layer of new horn has grown 
on, it may be i)added with waste, a sponge or cotton 



CALK WOUNDS. 201 

batting, a piece of leather placed over the entire bot- 
tom of the foot and a shoe nailed on, when the animal 
may be put at slow work. 



CALK WOUNDS. 



In all northern climates, when the roads become 
slippery, horses are necessarily shod with sharpened 
shoe calks. The heavier breed of horses, used for 
teaming and hauling heavy loads, are compelled to 




RESULTS FROM CALKING. 

twist, turn and back up, when they frequently tread 
upon their mate, or upon their own feet, inflicting 
injuries of a somewhat severe character. In fact, any 
horse wearing sharp calks, is liable to tramp upon and 
injure either itself or another horse. Some horses while 



202 DISEASES OF THE HORSE, 

standing in the stable, rest with one hind foot upon and 
immediately in front of the other foot. These liorses- 
are liable to calk themselves at any tijne. 




CALKING. 

Treatment : — When horses rest one foot upon the- 
other, a circular boot should be worn wdien in the sta- 
ble, extending out four inches from the ankle, which 
will prevent calking. If the wound is not deep and 
there is little if any soreness, fill it with tar or vaseline. 
But where the wound is deep and there is great sore- 
ness, with considerable inflammation and suppuration, 
hot poultices should be applied for a few days. Benefi- 
cial results will be produced by sprinkling powdered 
saltpetre upon the poultice before applying it. After- 
wards apply — 

Sulphate of Iron half ounce. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Use three times a day. 

Or tincture benzoin compound may be applied twice 
daily, with advantage. If the wound is deep between 
the horn and skin in front of the foot, cut away the 
detached horn and continue to apply either of the above 
remedies. 



CONTRACTED HEELS. 

Contracted heels or hoof-bound, is a very common 
disease among horses in cities. They are generally kept 
upon hard, dry floors and the feet do not receive the 



CONTRACTED HEELS. 



203 



necessary amount of moisture to keep the hoofs soft and 
pliable. When the hoof becomes dry and hard, it has a 
natural tendency from the conformation of the foot, to 
draw inward, and the continued inward pressure, causes 
a wasting away or shrinking of the soft tissues of the foot. 




CONTRACTED HEELS FROM BAD 
SHOEING. 

The fore feet are mostly liable to this aifection, although 
it may occur in a hind foot. Usually, only one foot at 
a time is affected. When both feet are attacked, one 
foot is worse than the other. Sometimes only one heel 
is contracted and when this is the case, it is generally 
the inner one. 

Causes : — One of the common causes of contracted 
heels, is a want of knowledge of the structure of the 
foot, on the part of the horseshoers. They become 
entirely too free with the knife and rasp. The frog, 
heels and bars are cut away, the walls are rasped too 
much, high calks are put on and the nails driven too 
close to the heels. Another common cause is the 
removing of horses from pasture lands, where they 



204 DISEASES OF THE HORSB. 

receive moisture and daily exercise, and shipping them 
to cities, where they are apt to be placed on hard, dry 
floors. The feet become fevered on account of the 
change, the horn becomes dry and hard, the soft tissues 
gradually waste away and contraction is the result. 
Contraction is sometimes an accompaniment to other 
diseases, as ring bone, side bones, thrush, corns, navic- 
ular disease, sprains of the tendons, etc. 

Symptom^ : — The hoof becomes dry and hard, and 
loses its circular shape. The heels are higher and nar- 
rower, the sole is greatly concaved; the frug is greatly 
shrunken and cramped between the narrow heels. The 
bottom of the foot is smaller than at the hair, the heels 
are often ridged and scaly, with deep fissures running 
up between the quarters. In the first stages there is no 
lameness, but great uneasiness is observed, manifesting 
itself by the frequent shifting from one foot to the 
other. The animal will stumble considerably, esj^e- 
cially when driven on hard, rough roads. When first 
brought out of the stable, there will be stiffness, and in- 
clination to walk upon the toe, but after being driven 
a while, it will warm up and go with quite a free 
action. The toes of the shoes wear down very quickly 
and when the shoes are removed and the bottom of the 
foot pared, a dry mealy substance is observed where the 
sole and wall come together. When the disease is of 
long standing, lameness is present. 

Treatment : — Preventive measures are much more 
effectual than curative ones. The feet should be kept 
moist, either by bathing or standing for a few hours 
daily upon some moist substance, as moist saw-dust, or 
a ground floor. Any of the parrafine ointments applied 
ti) both wall and sole two or three times a week, are 
very beneficial. One of the best remedies to keep the 



CONTRACTED HEELS. 205 

foot soft, is crude oil applied to both wall and sole twice 
a week but it should not be applied up against the hair. 
The rasp should not be used upon the wall to any ex- 
tent and the knife should not be applied to the frog, 
heels and bars. Level the heels down with the rasp, if 
necessary, and if there are loose pieces extending from 
the sole, remove them. Avoid putting calks on shoes 
except when absolutely necessary. Make the shoe the 
shape of the foot and not the foot the shape of the shoe. 
The shoes should be reset once a month and the feet 
will not become cramped nor grow too long. As to the 
cure of the disease, when it does exist, there is a great 
diversity of opinion. There are a great many shoes and 
other contrivances invented for the spreading of the 
heels, all of which may be of some value if properly 
and persistently used. About as good a course of treat- 
ment as can be employed, is to poultice the foot until 
softened, then pare it down well and lower the heels ; 
put a half shoe (commonly called a tij)) on the toe of 
the foot: leave it the usual thickness in front but taper 
the ends of the shoe down to a thin edge, then take a 
rasp and commence just below the hair to file the wall 
very thin, gradually sloping down to the bottom of the 
foot, where it should be left its natural thickness. 
When this has been done, apply around the coronet, 

Powd. Cantharides one drachm. 

Vaseline one ounce. Mix. 

Apply and wash off the next day. Grease with lard 
for a couple of days and then turn out to pasture. 
Leave in jjasture for three or four months and about 
every two Aveeks apply the ointment. If the case is not 
of too long standing, a complete cure may be expected, 
but in those old chronic cases, where the frog is almost 
obliterated, the sole greatly concaved, with extreme 



206 



DISEASES OF THE HOUSE. 



wasting of the soft tissues of tlie foot, treatment is al- 
most useless, and the animal had best be put out of its 
misery. 



KNEE SPRUNG. 



Knee sprung in reality is not a disease but is often 
the result of disease. In a perfectly formed limb, a 
line drawn from the elbow to the fetlock will touch the 
limb its entire length, but when the knees are sprung, 




KNEE SPRUNG. 

a line drawn from these points will pass at varying dis- 
tances behind the knees, presenting a bowed appear- 
ance of the limb. Slight bending of the knee may be 
congenital ; the colt being foaled with this deformity, 
may grow up and continue through life and yet not be 
considered a knee-sprung animal. 

Causes: — One of the most frequent causes is too 
much driving before the animal has matured or received 



KNEE SPRUNG. 207 

age sufficient to stand the work; or by hauling very 
heavy loads with young horses, but continuous hauling 
of heavy loads will cause a weakness and sprung knees 
in horses of any age. Sprain and injury of the back, 
tendons or suspensory ligament, if not properly treated, 
is most certain to be followed by sprung knees. Sore 
feet, soreness in the knee joint, sore shins or any dis- 
ease of the limb from the knee down, causing continued 
lameness whereby the animal rests the heel, will cause 
knee sprung, by the gradual contraction of the back 
tendons and ligaments. 

Treatment: — When occuring in young horses from 
overwork or fast driving, if the case is not of too long 
standing, give absolute rest and use a stimulating lini- 
ment, as — 

Tincture Cantharides four ounces. 

Oil Turpentine two ounces. 

Alcohol two ounces. Mix. 

Apply twice daily with smart friction down the back 
of the limb, both above and below the knees, or, 

Powd. Cantharides four drachms. 

Vaseline two ounces. Mix. 

Cut off the hair and apply along the back tendons, 
and in twenty-four hours wash off and grease every day 
with lard. While the medicine is on, tie the horse so 
he cannot bite it. Repeat every two weeks until three 
or four applications have been made. If there is thick- 
ening of the back tendons, use the latter prescription. 
The animal should rest for a :^ew months and during 
that time it may be turned out to pasture. With this 
trouble, the danger of recurrence must be borne in mind 
for it is always liable to occur again. If it arises from 
other causes, see treatment for those ailments. In old, 



208 DISEASES OF THE HOKSE. 

chronic cases, but little can be done. Sometimes the 
operation of tenotomy or cutting the tendons, may be 
performed, which see under head of "Sprain of the 
Flexor Tendons. " 



SAND CRACKS. 



Sand cracks or quarter cracks most frequently comes 
from concussion, or from driving at a high rate of sjjeed 
over rough roads, horses whose feet have weak walls, or 
whose feet have been weakened by rasping ; also from 
ill-fitting shoes with uneven bearings ; excessive dry- 




QUARTER OR SAND CRACK. 

ness ; also changing from damp to dry places, from tak- 
ing horses from pasture and stabling them on hard, dry 
floors; from jumping, calk wounds, etc. The cracks in- 
variably begin at the coronet and extend downward, 
sometimes into the quick, causing lameness and bleed- 
ing. Sometimes fungus growths will spring out of the 
crack near the coronet. 

Treatment : — If sand crack appears in a strong footed 
horse, I would advise clinching with a nail or clasp, to 



CORONITIS, 1NFLAM3IAT10N OF THE CORONET. 2(J9 

hold the wall firmly together. But if in a weak footed 
horse, as it almost invariably is, commence at the coro- 
net and cut the edges of the crack its full length, so 
they will not rub together. Then cut transversely 
(crosswise) at the coronet about three-quarters of an 
inch to each side of the crack to the quick, and apply 
a bar shoe, with even pressure all around. If the quar- 
ter is cracked all the way down to the shoe, you may 
take the bearing off from that quarter. Blisters ap- 
plied around the coronet will now act beneficially. Use 
the following : 

Olive Oil four ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. ■ 

Tr. Cantharides two ounces. Mix. 

Apply every three or four days. Also keep the en- 
tire hoof softened by painting it with crude oil two or 
three times a week. If a fungus growth springs out, 
cut it off and touch with nitrate of silver, or. 

Chloride Zinc four drachms. 

Soft Water two ounces. Mix. 

Apply as often as you deem it necessary. 



CORONITIS, INFLAMMATION OF THE CORONET. 

Inflammation of the coronet, with suppuration, is 
jiot infrequently met with in this country, and in many 
instances is caused by frost bites. A great many horses 
are abused by being compelled to stand out-doors dur- 
ing the excessively cold weather which prevails during 
the winter season ; and frequently we see cases of coro- 
nitis during that season. Ooronitis may also be caused 
by standing in filthy stables or by bruises. But from 
whatever cause, this disease is of a serious character. 



210 DISEASES OE THH HORSE. 

Symptoms: — There will be noticed a peculiar sluiffling 
or sliding lameness; there will be bulging of the coro- 
net, fever around the coronet and a tendency of the tis- 
sue to break and slough. 

Treatment: — The treatment must be constitutional as 
well a« local. Give the following ph^'sic, 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Powd. Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

-Give at one dose. , Also 

Nitrate of Potassium .... three ounces. 

Powd. Nux Vomica one ounce. 

Bi-Oarbonate of Soda two ounces. Mix. 

Make fifteen powders and give two powders each 
day. The local treatment consists in washing the coro- 
net thoroughly with castile soap and hot water, pencil- 
ing the sores with nitrate of silver every third day and 
applying twice daily, 

Vaseline two ounces. 

Salycilic Acid two drachms. 

Sulphate of Zinc one drachm. Mix. 

Or, 

Copperas one ounce. 

Carbolic Acid six drachms. 

Soft Water one pint. Mix. 

Apply twice daily, or paint every day with muriate 
of iron or tincture iodine. 



NAVICULAR DISEASES, OR COFFIN JOINT LAMENESS. 

This disease consists in inflammation and alteration 
of the structures entering into the formation of the cof- 
fin joint. It is generally seen in horses that are used as 
roadsters, or on the track. It may be caused by hard 
driving, picking up nails, by nails being driven into the 



NAVICULAR DISEASE, OR COFFIN JOINT LAMENESS. 211 

quick near the coffin joint, In' bad shoeing, as uneven 
bearings, or contraction at the heel; by wearing the 
shoes too long and too much pressure upon the soles, by 




NAVICULAR BONE DISEASED. 



gravel working into the foot, by strain of the flexor ten- 
don where it passes over the joint; also by concussions, 
bruises, or by standing too long in the stable. 



NAVICULAR BONE HEALTHY. 

Symptoms : — Pointing of one or both fore feet ; if one 
foot only be aliected it will be held in front of the other 
and rest only upon the toe ; if both are affected, the 
animal will change from one foot to the other and point 
alternately. There will be an inclination to stumble 
when first driven, but as the animal is warmed up, it 
will travel much better. The animal travels with a 
stumbling gait, the front part of the shoes being worn 
down when the heels of the shoes will be almost as good 
as new. This may go on for some time before the lame- 
ness becomes a prominent symptom. Afterwards will 
be fever in the heels, with more or less contraction of 
the hoofs at the heels, and a dryness throughout the foot, 
with lameness now as a prominent symptom. 



212 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Treatment: — When first noticed, take off the shoe? 
and turn the horse out to pasture on swampy ground, or 
fix up a stall with a clay floor, softened with water, and 
keep the patient standing there through the day. Dur- 
ing the night, poultice the feet with flaxseed till you re- 
duce the fever; then you may insert a frog seaton; or 
blister around the coronet with, 

Cantharides two drachms. 

Vaseline one ounce. Mix. 

Apply every two weeks and keep the animal ou 
damp pastures for three or four months, if possible. 

Or you may use — 

Tincture Cantharides two ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. 

Sweet Oil four ounces. Mix. 

Apply once daily for two or three weeks. 

The treatment of navicular disease is generally 
unsatisfactory ; but, if the foregoing fails, neurotomy is 
the final resort. This may be performed either by the 
liigh or the low operation. The high operation consists 
in cutting out a piece of the plantar nerve, just below 
the knee. The lower operation is cutting out a piece 
of the plantar nerve, at the pastern, between the fet- 
lock and the foot. As the nervous communication is 
cut off, the lameness ceases, although the disease con- 
tinues unabated. Nevertheless, to say the least, it is a 
humane operation. 



WOUNDS FROM BARBED WIRE. 

Wounds from barbed wire may be placed among the 
worst classes of injuries with which we have to deal. 
They are usually caused by horses running into a fence 
constructed of barbed wire. The skin is lacerated and 
torn and very frequently the muscles are divided and 



WOUNDS FROM liAilBED WIRE. 213 

torn in a frightfiJl way, the injury depending greatly 
ufion the force and manner in which the animal comes 
in contact with the wire. It is quite a common occur- 
rence, to see the skin and flesh of a foreleg torn across 
at the forearm to the bone, and the bone exposed froni 
there down to the knee, or to see the skin lacerated and 




WOUNDS FROM BARBED WIRE. 

torn around the hocks, and the tendons and ligaments 
exposed, also deep and serious injuries around the fet- 
locks and feet. In wounds of this kind, the loss of 
blood, as a rule, is not very great, the blood vessels 
becoming torn and twasted and thus preventing the 
flow of blood. 

Treatment: — First examine the wound very carefully 
and remove all dirt, splinters, or barbs from the wire, 
sliould any be found in the wound, then should blood be 
found flowing from any of the vessels, they should be 
picked up and tied. If it is found difiicult to do this, 
take a needle — any ordinary sewing needle will answer 
— and pass it through the flesh close to the blood vessel 
on both sides of it, then tie it tightly around the vessel. 
The small amount of flesh thus tied with the blood 
vessel, will do no harm. If the wound is not very 
large, it may be stitclied together, but rarely if ever, 
are stitches to be used in wounds of this kind. The 



214 DISEASES OF THE HOKSE. 

surrounding tissues become so weakened and torn that 
the stitches will not hold, and only tend to irritate 
instead of assisting in holding the parts together. It is 
best to get the portions together as closely as possible 
and secure them in this position with bandages or stick- 
ing plaster. If the sticking plaster is used, shave the 
hair close to the skin so the plaster will hold, always 
leaving an opening for the exit of pus. When the skin is 
torn in shreds, the pieces may just as well be cut off, as 
they will not heal and will only slough off if left alone. 
If there is much swelling, frequent applications of hot 
water should be used until the swelling subsides ; after- 
wards it will not be necessary to use hot water, except 
to wash off any matter that may accumulate. The 
wounds may be dressed with any of the following : 

Sugar Lead four draclims. 

Sulphate Zinc four drachms. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Apply twice daily, or, 

Carbolic Acid half ounce. 

Soft Water one pint. Mix. 

Or, 

Carbolic Acid • • half ounce. 

Raw Linseed Oil eight ounces. Mix. 

Apply morning and evening. Or an excellent heal- 
ing powder may be used if any unhealthy granulations 
called proud flesh, arise, as, 

Powd. Alum eight ounces. 

Iodoform one ounce. Mix. 

Apply twice daily. Should any symptoms of fever 
arise, give half ounce of saltpetre twice daily, and feed 
upon soft diet. Keep the patient tied, so that it cannot 
bite the sore. If the wound is very bad, it is sometimes 
necessary to place the animal in slings. 



SPLINT. 215 

SPLINT. 

Splint is a bony elargeinent seen most frequently on 
the inner side of the fore limbs, between the knee and 
lower third of the cannon bone. It is occasionally seen 
on the outer side of the fore limbs, as well as upon the 
hind limbs between the hock and pasterns. It varies 
considerably- in size, from that of a small butternut 




SPLINT AND SMALL WIND GALL. 

down to a grain of corn, but the small nodule which is 
always found two-thirds the distance down the cannon 
bone from the knee, should not be mistaken for splint, 
as it is the natural development of the small cannon 
bone. There are three cannon bones in each leg, one 
large and two small ones, situated between the knee 
and fetlock and hock and fetlock. The splint occupies 
a position between the large and small cannon bones, 
sometimes extending entirely across the back part of 
the large bone, beneath the suspensory ligament. ' In 



21 V DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

til is condition, permanent lameness may be looked for. 
The regular splint frequently causes lameness while 
growing, but after becoming hard, rarely causes any 
annoyance, remaining only as an eyesore. 

Causes: — The most common cause is too hard 
work, or too hard driving before the animal has fully 
matured. In the young animal, these bones articulate 
with a very limited movement and if strained or over- 
taxed, splint is formed. In older animals, these bones 
become united and it requires greater force to tear 
them apart so as to set up an inflammatory action result- 
ing in splint. But there are other causes, as running, 
jumping, slipping, kicks, bruises to the bone, in fact 
anything that will sprain the ligamentous attachments 
of the large and small cannon l)ones. When splints are 
caused by bruises, they may appear anywhere on the 
bone. 

Symptoms : — In the earlier stages, there will be lame- 
ness ; as observed when the animal is trotting, the limb 
will be carried with an outward swing, accompanied by 
a very low nodding of the head, but while the animal 
is walking, the lameness will scarcely be perceptible, 
except when the splint is close up to the knee affecting 
the knee joint. Then lameness may be observed while 
the animal is walking. By bending the leg and press- 
ing quite heavily along the bones, tenderness will be 
observed. Later on, by passing the hand down along 
the bone, an enlargement will be felt. When the 
enlargement is an inch or more below the knee, it sel- 
dom amounts to much, but if close to the knee so as to 
affect the joint, it frequently causes permanent 
lameness. 

Treatment: — In many instances it is advisable to let 
it alone, but if they are quite tender and feverish, use 
some mild lotion, as, 



SORE SHINS. 



217 



Witchhazel six ounces. 

Tincture Arnica one ounce. 

Laudanum one ounce. Mix. 

Apply tliree times a day, after l)athing with cold 
"water. After the fever and soreness have been reduced 
»nd the animal still remains lame, use a blister, as, 

Red Iodide Mercury one drachm. 

Cantliarides one drachm. 

Vaseline one ounce. Mix. 

Make two or three applications, allowing a week to 
intervene between each application. Then allow two or 
three weeks rest, if possible. If lameness and soreness 
upon pressure is great, the trouble lies under the cover- 
ing of the bone; a small opening made with a small 
blade of a knife, cutting through the covering immedi- 
ately over the lump, will relieve the tension. Treat as 
above specified. 



SORE SHINS. 



This is an affection of the cannon bones in the fore 
legs of young horses, and is mostly seen in race horses 
and trotting horses under four years old. It is caused 
by the amount of hard work they are forced to perform 
when their bones are as yet unable to stand it. The 
bones do not become fully developed until the age of 
five or six years, and if subjected to hard training while 
in the state of development, they are unable to stand 
the shocks and concussions caused by severe and contin- 
ued speeding. Sore shins may include the entire bone 
but generally affect only the anterior part of the lower 
third thereof. It is also caused by kicks either from 
the attendant or from otlier horses; or by grooms 
becoming vexed while currying over the shins and hit- 



218 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

ting them three with the edge of the curry conib^ 
because the animal is restless from pain. 

Symptoms : — If in the thoroughbred, lameness will be 
observed after a gallop ; if in one leg, that foot will be 
placed in front of the other, or pointing. If occurring 
in both legs, the animal will be restless, shifting its 
weight from one leg to the other. An animal affected 
in this manner, acts sore and moves with a short, stiff,, 
stilty gait. The parts are very sensitive when pressed, 
upon. There is more or less swelling along the bone,, 
which at first is soft and doughy upon pressure ; after a 
time it becomes hard, like bone. The soreness may 
extend the entire length of the bone, but if caused by 
an injury, it may be confined to the injured portion 
alone, and also as a usual thing, soreness arising from, 
overwork, settles in the lower third of the bone, just 
above the fetlock joint. 

Treatment : — When the lamenesss is first noticed,, 
bathe the parts with cold water for half an hour to an 
hour at a time, three times a day. Immediately after 
apply, 

Spts. Chloroform two ounces. 

Laudanum two ounces. 

Tr. Arnica two ounces. 

Witchhazel ten ounces. Mix. 

Apply a loose bandage and moisten it occasionally 
with this liniment. Continue in this manner until the 
soreness disappears completely, then, if necessary, ap- 
ply a few blisters, allowing ten days to two weeks to 
intervene between each application. The following will 
suffice : 

Red Iodide of Mercury. . ..one drachm. 

Cantharides two drachms. 

Vaseline or Lard two ounces. Mix. 



WIND GAIJ.S WIND PUFFS. 219 

Apply with smart friction. In twenty-four hours 
wash off, and grease daily with lard, until anotlier ap- 
plication of the blister is made, after w^hicli grease as 
before. Absolute rest is imperative and a complete 
restoration of the parts may be effected in a few weeks, 
without the use of blisters. Bad cases, however, will 
need the blisters and continued rest for several months. 
The constitutional treatment consists of a physic, given 
at the outset, of, 

Barbadoes Aloes one ounce. 

Gentian two drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose, in half pint of water. Feed on 
soft food and give a teaspoonful of powdered saltpetre 
twice daily. 



WIND GALLS— WIND PUFFS. 

This disease consists of dilated bursee situated at the 
back part of the limbs, at the fetlock joint, or immedi- 




WIND GALL. 

ately above the joint. They are more often seen on the 
hind than on the fore limbs and are usually caused from 
over exertion and sprains. They appear as soft tumors 
of various sizes, being some-svhat tense, when the animal 



220 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

stands firmly upon the afflicted linil). They are usually 
painless and seldom cause lameness, but if an inflamma- 
tory action takes place, they become painful and lame- 
ness results. They may swell so large as to interfere 
with the action of the tendon, thus causing lameness, or 
sometimes they change their condition and become cal- 
cified or bonelike, then lameness will follow, although 
this condition is seldom seen. 

Treatment. — When they first appear, bathing with 
cold water and bandaging, will keep them under con- 
trol, followed with a few applications daily of tincture 
of iodine. If they do not yield to this treatment, use 
the following blister : 

Red Iodide of Mercury .... one drachm. 

Powd. Oantharides one drachm. 

Vaseline two ounces. Mix. 

Out off the hair and apply with smart friction. 
Allow it to remain on for twenty-four hours, then wash 
off and grease every day for five days, when apply tigain. 
Use in this manner until four applications have beam 
made, or, 

Cottonseed Oil five ounces. 

Oroton Oil ten drachms. 

Oil Camphor tliree drachms. 

Oil Turpentine live drachms. 

Oil Origanum.. one and a-half drachms. 

Coal Oil ten drachms. 

Sulphuric Acid half drachm. Mix. 

Apply once a day with smart friction, until thor- 
oughly blistered ; apply a little hogs' lard for a few 
days, then repeat the liniment. Tlie treatment of wind 
galls is sometimes a little unsatisfactory, as they will 
often reappear. 



SWELLED LEGS — STOCKING — ODEMA. 

SWELLED LEGS— STOCKING— ODEMA. 



221 



This is more of a symptom than a disease and is fre- 
quently the result of defective kidneys, liver or heart, 
weak circulation, or lymphatic irritation from standing 
upon a hard floor, without exercise, etc. 

Symptoms: — When the animal is at work or turned 
out to pai^ture, tliere will be little or no swelling ; when 
standing in the stable, the lower part of the linil)S wil! 




SWEl,LKD LEGS. 

become swollen, but the swelling will disappear upon 
exercise. The animal will apparently be enjoying ex- 
cellent health, pulse normal and appetite good, yet 
swelling of the limbs every morning. 

Treatment : — If from standing upon the hard floor, 
change to a dirt floor, and if from want of exercise and 
you have no work for the animal, turn into a vacant ht. 
for a few hours each day. Give some tonic to tone i.p 



222 DISK ASKS OF Til'.-; liOr.SE. 

the system as well as medicines to operate upon the 
kidneys, as, 

Sulphate of Iron tvro ounces. 

Quinine Sulphate lour draciims. 

Gentian one ounce. IMix. 

Make sixteen powders. Give two powders eacli 
day, or, 

Nitrate of Potassium two ounces. 

Powd. Nux Vomica one ounce. 

Bi-Carbonate of Soda one ounce. Mix. 

Make twelve powders. Give two powders each day. 
Frequent hand rubbings of the swollen parts, with a few 
applications of witchhazel, will be found to be very 
beneficial. 



COCKED ANKLES, OR KNUCKLING. 

Causes: — All kinds of heavy work and hard pulling-, 
especially on hilly roads, or not being properly shod and 




KNUCKLING OVER, OR COCKED ANKLES. 

pulling and slipping on smooth pavements; also fast 
driving upon hard roads or race tracks. It is most fre- 
quently seen in horses witb-very straight pasterns, and 
©specially in the hind pasterns of horses somewhat ad- 



COCKED ANKLE, OR KNUCKLING. 223 

Tanced in years. It is also produced by disease or 
s^prain of the suspensory ligament, and by shortening of 
the tendons at the back of the leg, as well as diseases of 
the fetlock joint. Many young foals knuckle over so 
V)adly, that they walk upon their pasterns for a short 
time, but as the muscles, ligaments and tendons gain a 
little strength, they adapt themselves to their functions 
and force the joints to their place. 

Treatment : — In the case of young foals, it is seldom 
necessary to interfere, as in a few days or weeks they 
will straighten themselves. But if they walk over on 
the pastern joint and do not straighten themselves in a 
few days, take some rubber hose or belting padded with 
-cotton batting or wool, and make a brace to extend 
from the foot to the knee, fasten it on, with the leg per- 
fectly straight but do not tie too tightly ; allow it to 
remain for a week or ten days, examining frequently to 
see that it does not chafe the leg and as soon as the colt 
will stand straight, remove it. When knuckling occurs 
in young horses, from fast driving upon hard roads, re- 
move the shoes, then apply a few blisters from below 
the knees behind the legs, down around the fetlock, and 
turn out to pasture. You may use either a liquid blis- 
ter or a salve; either of the following will suffice: 

Spts. Turpentine two ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. 

Olive Oil four ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Oil Cedar half ounce. 

Oil Tansy half ounce. 

Oil Hemlock half ounce. 

Oil Wormwood half ounce. 

Alcohol ten ounces. Mix. 

Apply morning and evening for a week or ten 
days. Or, 



224 DISEASES OF THE HOESE. 

Powdered Cantharides. .four drachms. 

Vaseline two ounces. Mix. 

Apply every four days with smart friction, until 
three or four applications have been made; then grease 
every day with hog's lard until healed, or use the firing 
iron which should only be attempted by a qualified sur- 
geon. When knuckling has become chronic, relieve the 
tendons by proper shoeing, which is best done by rais- 
ing the heels and lowering the toe. For the hind feet^ 
a long heel shoe with high calks answers best. 



SIDE-BONES. 



This consists in solidification or ossification of the 
lateral cartilages, situated on either side of the foot just 
above the heel. It may be caused by shoeing with too 
high calks, by pricks of nails, by corns, by uneven shoe- 
ing, by cutting away the bars of the foot, by bruises to 
the heels or soles of the feet, causing a deep irritation 
or inflammation. 

Symptoms : — Lameness, with short, etilty gait and a 
want of elasticity in movement. On pressing upon the 
cartilage on either side of the heel, you will find it hard 
and unyielding, instead of soft and pliable; and the 
pressure will cause pain. Sidebones are almost always 
found in the heavy breed of horses. Whether in heavy 
or liglit horses, it is considered an unsoundness. 

Treatment : — The treatment consists in absolute rest, 
and shoeing with a bar shoe. If lameness continues, 
blister with — 

Cantharides two drachms. 

Red Iodide of Mercury .... one drachm. 

Vaseline one and one-half ounces. Mix. 



CUEB. 



225 



Apply every five or six days until four applications 
have been made. If that should fail, use the firing 
iron and blister immediately. If this fail, perform neu- 
rotomy by cutting out the plantar nerve. 



CURB. 

This disease is always seen at the posterior aspect of 
the hock and consists of a sprain of the calcaneo cuboiii 
ligament, or s^^rain of the tendon which passes down 
the back part of the hock, or one of its sheaths or cov- 




CURB. 

erings. It is generally caused by horses jumping ami 
rearing, by backing up violently, or by slipping. It 
sometimes appears as a small very hard nodule ; or it 
may be very large and soft, with heat and tenderness, 
and more or less lameness. The lameness does not 
depend upon the size of the curb. Sometimes the curb 
is very large with no lameness ; at other times it is very 
small with considerable lameness present. Sometimes 
it is congenital, and in such cases it is not an unsound- 



226 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

ness. It is best observed by standing over it and look- 
inii ^^traiglit down the hind leg, from the point of the 




CURB. 

hock to the fetlock, which should present a straight line, 
but when a curb is present you will observe the 
enlargement about three or four inches down from the 
point of the hock. 

Treatment: — First and foremost — rest. Apply high- 
heeled shoes, hot fomentations and a liniment com- 
posed of — 

Alcohol four ounces. 

Tinct. Iodine two ounces. 

"VVitchhazel two ounces. Mix. 

Apply after bathing. If this fail to remove, apply — 

Tine. Myrrh et Capsicum.. eight ounces. 

Red Iodide Mercury two drachms. 

Iodide Potassium two drachms. Mix. 

Apply after bathing with hot water, or, 

Powd. Cantharides one drachm. 

Red Iodide of Mercury . . . one drachm. 

Vaseline one ounce. Mix. 



CAPPED HOCK. 



227 



Apply once a week until four or five applications have 
been made. Sometimes it is necessary to use the firing, 
iron ; when such is the case, use the sharp pointed or 
needle iron and fire (juite deep, after which apply the 
above blister. Sometimes a curb can be removed by 
friction. Take a bone or smooth i)iece of hard wood and 
rub the curl) tlioroughly once or twice a day, and in the 
course of time, a small curb will disappear. 



CAPPED HOCK. 

This consists of a serious abscess, situated on the point 
of the hock, l)etween the skin and te.ndons in areolar 
tissue. It is generally caused by the horse kicking the 
point of the hock against some hard substance, or by 




CAPPED HOCK. 

Druises on the point of the hock. The size varies from 
that of a wahmt to that of a good, large bowl. The 
abscess is soft and fluctuating. It seldom causes any 
lameness, but in rare instances it does. 



228 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Treatment : — First of all prevent the cause ; if from 
kicking in the stable, which it generally is, change the 
patient to a stall where it cannot injure itself. Then 
apply high heeled shoes, and foment with hot water un- 
til the inflammation subsides. Then open with a lancet 
from below and allow the serum to escape. Afterwards 
inject tincture of iodine into the sack and apply a cold 
bandage ; if thought necessary, repeat in two or three 
days. If it heals up and there is no serum accumula- 
ting, but just a slight thickening of the parts, apply, 

Rectified Spirits four ounces. 

Tincture Iodine two ounces. 

Witchhazel two ounces. Mix. 

Foment with hot water and apply the liniment 
twice daily ; or, 

Tr. Iodine two ounces. 

Oil Hemlock half ounce. 

Oil Wormwood half ounce. 

Oil Origanum one ounce. 

Alcohol four .ounces. Mix. 

Foment with hot water and apply twice (laily. 
Have plenty of patience and perseverance as the com- 
plete removal is sometimes very obstinate. 



THOROUGH PIN. 



This is a disease of the sheath of the flexor perforans 
tendons, and is usually caused by a sprain. It some- 
times causes considerable lameness ; at other times the 
lameness will be very slight, and, possibly, none at all. 
This tendon plays down the back part of the hock to the 
inside of the os calsis or point of the hock, and any 
sprain or irritation may cause an extra secreti(ni within 
the sheath of the tendon and a bulging out on each side 
of the back part of the hock, in the hollow or gambrel 



THOROUGH PIN. 229 

space. It is usually a soft, fluctuating tumor and if 
pressed on one side, will cause a greater enlargement on 
the other side. 




"""""i 

THOROUGH PIN. 

Treatment: — If there is lameness, give absolute rest 
and apply hot fomentations for a few days. Then blis- 
ter with, 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Cantharides one drachm. 

Red Iodide Mercury . . one-half drachm. Mix. 
Or apply, 

Tincture Myrrh four ounces. 

Capsicum four ounces. 

Iodide of Potassium one drachm. Mix. 

Or, 

Cotton Seed Oil four ounces. 

Croton Oil one ounce. 

Oil Camphor two drachms. 

Oil Turpentine four drachms. 

Oil Origanum one ounce. 

Coal Oil one ounce. 

Sulphuric Acid forty drops. Mix. 



280 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Apply once daily with smart friction. If this should 
fail to remove it and the lameness has subsided, leave 
it alone unless it be a valuable horse. Then, if the 
swelling is great, open it and allow the fluid to escape, 
afterwards injecting tincture of iodine into the sack, 
until you are satisfied the sack is destroyed. Then keep 
cold water running over the hock, or apply a sponge on 
either side of the hock and keep it wet with cold water 
to keep control of the swelling; and keep this up until 
the swelling subsides. Immediately after opening give 
physic, 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Powd. Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose. Feed on soft feed and give. 

Saltpetre four ounces. 

Bi-Oarbonate of Soda two ounces. 

Glauber Salts one pound. Mix. 

Give two tablespoonfuls two or three times a day. 
It will take about three months to effect a cure. If the 
limb swells very much and the patient does not lie down, 
place slings under it to give rest and relieve the other 
leg. 



TUMORS. 

Tumors belong to a class of diseases known as hyi3er- 
trophies or enlargements, and should not be confounded 
with inflammatory exudations. Tumors constantly 
grow or increase in size independent of the surrounding 
tissues, with the exception that they derive their nour- 
ishment from the blood, whilst an inflammatory exuda- 
tion depends on a morbid state of the parts, and 
increases as long as the morbid state continues, then 
decreases to a greater or less extent. Tumors are di- 



INCISED AND CONTUSED WOUNDS. 231 

vided into several kinds or classes. But to speak of 
them separately is quite unnecessary in a work of this 
kind. We will treat of them in a general sense or take up 
those which are most frequently met with in veterinary 
practice. These are fibroid, fatty, cystic and cancerous 
tumors. Any of these tumors may be seen on almost 
any part of the animal, and for the removal of them, 
such remedies as iodine, mercury and stimulating em- 
brocations, are used with more or less success. The 
best mode of disposing of them, is to dissect them out 
and afterwards treat them as an ordinary wound. (See 
wounds.) Should a fibrous tumor make its appearance 
in the nostrils in the form of a nasal polypus, it may be 
removed by an ecraseur, an instrument of French in- 
vention for removing excresences ; or you may take a 
small iron with an eye in the end of it, fasten a heavy 
cord through it, and slip it up over the tumor until you 
have reached the top of it, then commence twisting and 
continue until you have twisted it off; pull the tumor 
out and you have completed your work. 



INCISED AND CONTUSED WOUNDS. 

An incised wound is the result of a cut from any 
sharp instrument. If an artery or vein cut, it should be 
taken up and tied. Then wash out any dirt that may 
have accumulated and bring the edges of the wound 
together, and fasten with stiches. This may be done 
by using a curved needle and white linen or silk thread, 
or catgut sutures. The best mode is by the interrupted 
suture, viz. : by taking stitches one-half to threcTfourths 
of an inch apart, tying a knot at each stitch and cutting 
the ends about one-half inch long. Afterwards apply 
Friar's balsam, or — 



232 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Carbolic Acid one-half drachm. Mix. 

Or, 

Carbolic Acid one-half ounce. 

Raw Linseed Oil eight ounces. Mix. 

Apply once or twice daily. Should the stitch break 
out, the wound will heal by granulation. When this 
occurs bathe with tepid water and castile soap occasion- 
ally, and apply twice daily the following: 

Powd. Alum four ounces. 

Iodoform one ounce. Mix. 

Use sparingly. 

Contused wounds are those where the tissues are 
bruised or torn, and always require a careful and thor- 
ough examination, for fear some foreign body may be 
lodged deeply within tliem. This, if not removed, will 
be a constant source of irritation and thus prevent the 
wound from healing. After all foreign bodies are re- 
moved, wash out thoroughly and stitch the edges of the 
wound together as best you can, then if possible, bandage 
below the wound to assist in bringing and holding it 
together. As these wounds always heal by granulation, 
begin at once to use compound tincture of benzoin, or, 

Sulphate of Zinc four drachms. 

Sugar of Lead five drachms. 

Soft Water one pint. Mix. 

Or, 

Powd. Alum four ounces. 

Iodoform one ounce. Mix. 

Apply morning and evening. If it suppurates much, 
wash with hot water and castile soap. Occasionally an 
enlargement or inflammatory exudation is thrown out, 
sometimes called " proud flesh. " When this happens, 



IRrvEGULAllITIES OF THE TEETH. 283 

touch every third day with nitrate of silver, or burnt 
iihim, until it disappears. If any portion of the skin 
l;econies detacheJ or fails to heal up, cut it off with a 
knife. 



IRREGULARITIES OF THE TEETH. 

Sometimes from various causes, the teeth of a horse 
"become very irregular. I have seen the molar teeth of 
a horse serrated like the teeth of a saw, so that they 
fitted nicely together. Such animals could not grind 
their hay, and had to be fed altogether on soft food. 
The upper jaw is always a little wider than the other, 
just enough to fetch the molars nicely together. But 
Bometimes the upper jaw is so wide that the teeth do 
not come together, consequently there is an irregular 
growth. At other times the surface of one tooth is 
harder than that of its fellow on the opposite jaw; the 
result is that one tooth grows long and its opposite is 
worn away. In such cases the projecting tooth should 
be cut off. I remember seeing a horse six years old, 
belonging to a Mr. Butler, near Spencerville, Indiana, 
almost dead from starvation, though it had plenty of 
hay and grain in the manger. The cause was irregular 
teeth. The horse was so poor it could not stand, and so 
weak that it could not raise its head, and was in fact, 
dying when I put it out of its misery. Had I seen tlie 
horse before it became so weak as to be unable to stand 
an operation on its teeth or to eat afterwards, it might 
have been saved. 

When the teeth become irregular so tha sharp cor- 
ners lacerate the tongue or cheeks, they should be 
rasped off' with a guarded rasp. Any person can do 
this with a little care. The surface of the teeth should 
never be rasped smooth ; as the horse has to grind his 
food, the teeth should be rough. 



284 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

TOOTHACHE— DECAY, OR CARIES OF THE TEETH. 

Decay of the teeth is generally caused by blows, by 
biting hard substances, such as nails: or from food 
becoming lodged between the teeth, or between the 
cheeks and teeth. 

Symptoms : — An excessive flow from the mouth of a 
saliva, very ropy in consistency ; intense pain, exhibited 
when the tooth is struck by an instrument, by redness- 
and swelling of the gums ; by dropping of half-chewed 
food from the mouth, by the presence of whole grain in 
the manure, by suddenly stopping while chewing food, 
throwing the head to one side and slightly opening the 
mouth; also by suddenly stopping and throwing the 
head to one side when drinking cold water. Other 
symptoms, are unthrifty appearance of the animal; 
rough staring coat, weakness and emaciation, with pro- 
fuse sweating on very little exercise, swelling of the 
jaw. If in the fang or root of the upper molar, there 
wnll frequently be a fa?tid discharge from the nostril on 
the affected side. If the root of the lower molar, there 
may be, in connection with the swelling, a fistula of the 
lower jaw. 

Treatment : — First make an examination of the teeth 
by looking inlo the mouth, or explore with the hand. 
If food or any other substance is lodged around the 
teeth, remove it, and if you cannot decide which tooth 
is affected from looking into the mouth, press upon the 
teeth separately through the cheeks and usually when 
the affected tooth is pressed upon, the animal will 
evince pain. If the tooth is badly affected, it should be 
removed. This may be accomplished by taking a pair 
of forceps and fastening onto the tooth, then twisting 
and working the tooth until it appears loose. Tlien 
place a small piece of wood beneath the handles of the 



PARROT aiOUTH. 



235 



forceps close up to the tooth ; pry down on the handle 
and the tooth will come out, unless it should be so badly 
decayed that it breaks off. When this happens the best 
mode of treatment is to trephine the jaw, just above 
the fangs of the tooth, and punch the latter out. The 
punch should not be less than a quarter of an inch in 
diameter. Place the punch on the fangs of tlie tooth 
an-l hit it a few taps with a hammer, when the tooth 
will drop out. The after treatment consists in feeding 
soir food for a few days and washing out tiie cavity with 
a ten per cent, solution of carbolic acid twice a day. 



PARROT MOUTH. 



This is a peculiar condition of the mouth, where the 
upper jaw is much longer than the lower. Consequently 




PARROT MOUTH. 

the upper and lower incisors fail to m.eet, and the upper 
incisors grow down to an enormous length. The incisors 
of the jaw^ also grow to such a length that they press 



286 DISEASES OF THE HOKSP:. 

upon the bars of the roof of the mouth, sometimes to 
such an extent as to injure the horse. In such cases 
the teeth must be filed or rasped down. Parrot mouth 
is a great inconvenience, as the animal cannot graze ; it 
will, however, do well when fed in the stable. 



WOLF, OR SUPERNUMERARY TEETH. 

Supernumerary teeth, more frequently called "wolf 
teeth," are frequently seen just in front of the molars 
in either the upper or lower jaw. They are small, con- 
ical shaped teeth and of little or no importance what- 
ever, except where they grow to a sufficient length to 
disturb the horse while eating. Many persons labor un- 
der the mistaken idea that "wolf teeth" cause blind- 
ness in horses. This can hardly be the case. But horses 
having hereditary optlialmia, or which are otherwise 
prone to weakness of the eyes, may be greatly dis- 
turbed during dentition fever ; and after such fever is 
abated, all symptoms of ophthalmia disappear; and the 
credit is erroneously given to the extraction of the 
"wolf teeth." But when called upon to extract them, 
do so for the price and for the owner's consolation — but 
not for any great benefit to the animal. 



APOPLEXY. 



Apoplexy is a rupture of a blood-vessel in the brain. 
The vessel being in a weakened or diseased condition, 
breaks or ruptures and allows the blood to escape into 
the brain structure, where it forms a clot. 

Symptoms : — A stroke of apoplexy comes on very 
suddenly. The animal will fall, if the extravasation of 
blood is great. There is a sudden loss of both feeling 
and motion; difficult breathing is observed and there is 



PAKALYSIS OF THE LIPS. 237 

inability to arouse the patient from its stupor. The 
action of the heart seems regular at first, but gradually 
grows quicker and weaker, and if the shock is very 
heavy, the organ soon ceases to beat. If the ruptured 
vessel is small and the escape of blood very limited, 
unconsciousness may be complete for a short time, pos- 
sibly a few minutes, or an hour or more. After this, a 
general or local paralysis is observed. During the 
period of insensibility, the breathing is labored, in fact 
stentorian. The pulse is slow and full and the head 
hot. The location of the paralysis, which is sure to fol- 
low apoplexy, depends upon the portion of the brain 
pressed upon by the extravasated blood. 

Treatment : — Place the patient in a cool, quiet, com- 
fortable place and keep the head elevated, and cool 
with wet cloths or a sponge until the temperature be- 
comes natural. Kub the limbs thoroughly and band- 
age, and if necessary to warm them, apply mustard. 
After the animal regains consciousness so that it will 
swallow, give the following : 

Powd. Aloes one ounce. 

Calomel one drachm. 

Powd. Gentian two drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of water as a drench. 
Also give, 

Iodide of Potassium two ounces. 

Bromide of Potassium two ounces. Mix. 

Make sixteen powders. Give three powders each 
day for a couple of weeks. 



PARALYSIS OF THE LIPS. 

Paralysis of the lips is seen in all classes of horses, 
and is the result of an irritation and inflammation of 
the seventli pair of nerves, called the portio dura. It is 



238 DISEASES OF TlIK HORSE. 

very seldom, indeed, that the nerves on both sides of the 
face are affected. The disease is generally confined to one 
side. During the time the inflammatory action(neuritis) 
is in progress, the nerve loses its functional ability and 
the exudation from the inflammatory action, prepsing 
upon the nerve, prevents it from regaining that ability 
and thus the paralysis continues. Examination along 
the course of the nerve will frequently reveal a small, 
hard nodule, or the inflammatory exudation which is the 
seat of the trouble. The causes of this disease may be 
found in badly fitting or heavy halters and bridles, 
blows, kicks, etc. The lip will hang pendulous and 
flabby, with inability to raise it to its proper place. 
The animal will drop food from the mouth and have great 
difliculty in getting enough to eat, as it has to gather it 
with its teeth instead of with its lips. When drinking, 
it pushes its head deep into the bucket to drink. 

Treatment: — The treatment consists of removing 
from the nerves, all pressure in the form of halters and 
bridles, and place the horse in a loose box stall. Feed 
on soft food and apply hot fomentations to the side of 
the cheek. Immediately afterward apply. 

Tincture Cantliarides two ounces. 

Tincture Iodine two ounces. 

Tincture Capsicum one ounce. 

Alcohol three ounces. Mix. 

Apply morning and evening along the side of the 
face for about two weeks. Then, if no progress is no- 
ticeable, apply, 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Cantharides one-half drachm. 

Red Iodide of Mercury ... one drachm. Mix. 
Use thoroughly every fourth day, for three applica- 
tions. Afterwards grease with hogs' lard every day un- 
til well. Should this fail, apply the actual cautery, or 
insert seatons ; or you may try acupuncturation. 



GOITRE BRONCHOCELE. 239 

GOITRE— BRONCHOCELE. 

This is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, which 
is situated on the under side of the neck just behind the 
angles of the lower jaw, at what is sometimes called the 
throat-latch. These glands when enlarged assume vary- 
ing proportions, from those of a hen's egg to the size of 
a sugar bowl. When greatly enlarged, they sometimes 
press heavily upon the windpipe and cause difficult 
breathing. It is most frequently seen where animals 




BRONCHOCELE. 

graze and drink water off of magnesian limestone for- 
mations, although low situations and damp, high localities 
are producing causes. The disease api:)ears as a hard 
lump or tumor on the side of the neck. The enlargement 
is movable, grows very slowly and is not very sensitive. 
Treatment : — Remove the cause, if it is ascertainable, 
feed on good food, and give drachm doses of iodide of 
potash once daily ; also cut oft" the hair and paint the 
lump with tincture of iodine once daily for a continued 
length of time. If this does not check the growth and 
reduce it, and it should be of such a size as to interfere 
with the breathing, take a hypodermic syringe and 
inject half an ounce of iodine into the center of the 
tumor, once a week for a few weeks; or if need be, it 
can be dissected out, but this operation requires the 
skill of a veterinary surgeon. 



2-iO LISKASES OF THE HORSE. 

PILES— HAEMORRHOIDS. 

This disease though somewhat rare in horses, is 
deserving of mention, as it is a source of considerable 
annoyance when it does exist. It is due principally to 
constipation, but may be observed to follow the intense 
straining of dysentery, or the severe and prolonged 
labor pains attending difficult parturition, or foaling. 
Injuries might also be considered a cause. Whenever 
bright red irregular tumors are observed, varying in 
size from a small marble to that of a hen's egg, protrud- 
ing after the passage of manure or when the animal is 
lying down, you have a case of piles on hand. Often 
when piles are present, the animal will rub the tail and 
rump against a post or other stationary object until it 
bleeds or scabs are formed on the parts, and not infre- 
quently blood streaks are observed on the manure. 

Treatment : — First direct your attention to the condi- 
tion of the bowels, which should be kept soft by feeding 
on mashes and chop feed with a liberal supply of salt, 
but physic should be avoided. AVhen the tumors pro- 
trude beyond the anus, wash them off thoroughly with 
warm water then barely cut into them with a knife, 
squeeze them out nicely, and deep into the wound put a 
few drops of. 

Sulphate of Zinc four drachms. 

Water two ounces. Mix. 

Afterwards grease the tumor with vaseline and 
return it within the anus. One tumor each week is 
enough to operate upon. If considered preferable, 
they may be tied off by using line white silk or hemp 
thread. Place the thread around the tumor close up to 
the bowel and tie it as tightly as it can be comfortably 
drawn and allow the tumor to slough off. If the tumors 
do not protrude, oil the hand and pass it into the 



RABIES — .MADNESS — HYDROPHOBIA. 



241 



bowel, then sieze the tumor and by iientle traction it 
may be brought to the surface for the operation of 
removal. If the tie method is chosen, only two at a 
time should be operated upon and these allowed to 
come away before another operation is undertaken. 



RABIES— MADNESS— HYDROPHOBIA. 



Madness is credited with arising spontaneously in 
the dog, fox, wolf and cat but does not attack the larger 
animals, save only as the result of inoculation. In 
regard to spontaneous origin in any animal, I entertain 
serious doubts. That a poison or virus may be intro- 




RABIES — MADNESS. 

duced into the system which will act upon the nerve 
centers, causing severe symptoms with d-estructive ten- 
dencies, there is no doubt, but it must be done through 
inoculation. * One dog may bite another and the one 
bitten may become affected with rabies, while the one 
inllicting the wound, shows no symptoms of the disease 



242 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

whatever, but at the time tlie bite was given, the saliva 
was unhealthy and contained a virus which became 
absor})ed into the system, affecting the nerve centers 
and producing the disease. It is communicable to all 
the lower animals, but all animals bitten by a mad dog 
do not become affected with rallies. While statistics 
show that one in eleven of the human family, having 
been bitten by a rabid animal, was stricken with rabies 
I believe- that even then, it was caused by fear and con- 
tinued worry over the possible results of the injury, 
rather than from inoculation from the bite itself. 

Symptoms : — The period of incubation extends from 
a few days to a few months. It is usually observed in 
the horse in from fifteen to ninety days, twenty to 
thirty days in cattle, twenty to seventy days in sheep, 
twenty to fifty days in swine, and in man its develop- 
ment is questionable unless he brings it upon himself 
by continued anxiety and worry about the bite and the 
disease itself. The first thing observed, is irritation of 
the original wound; although the injury may have 
healed completely, the animal commences to rub and 
bite at it and soon a new sore is formed. If a horse, it 
now becomes irritable, frantic and vicious. The penis 
will protrude with frequent erections. A mare will act 
as though desiring the stallion. The patient will neigh, 
l)yw, strike, kick, bite the manger and surrounding 
objects, wdiile the slightest noise made by an attendant 
seems to be exaggerated by the afflicted animal ; it may 
then try to destroy everything around it. There will 
be periods of calm and rest, when the attacks of rage 
and wild, vicious manoeuvering will again return. In 
attempting to eat or drink, the act of swallowing is 
prevented by spasms of the throat. If the disease is 
allowed to run its course, paralysis of the limbs will 
follow, and death. 



HYSTKHIA. 243 

Treatment: — When first bitten, burn the wound 
deeply with a red-hot iron, or nitrate of silver (lunar 
caustic), caustic potash or carbolic acid, or cut out a 
piece of the flesh around the wound and then burn it. 
When the disease has once developed, it is too danger- 
ous a risk to attempt to do anything, except to destroy 
the animal, thus putting it out of its misery as well as 
preventing a loss of the property it would destroy while 
in a frenzied condition. 



HYSTERIA. 



This disease is seldom seen in the domesticated ani- 
mals and when appearing, occurs only in the female. 
It consists of an excitable condition of the whole 
nervous system, occurring about the time the mare is in 
season, which gives rise to the theory that it is caused 
by the ovaries and womb. The nervousness is exhibited 
by trembling of the muscles, grinding the teeth, champ- 
ing the jaws and sometimes foaming at the mouth. 
The patient acts as though delirious. It may paw, kick 
or strike, or it may fall or lie down and refuse to arise 
if forced, but may get up voluntarily if left alone. 
Tliere is rolling of the eyes, and when in a recumbent 
position, the animall will sometimes be perfectly still, 
and again will paw or strike; in fact, the actions are at 
times so peculiar, that it is almost impossible to de- 
scribe them. 

Treatment: — Give a quart of raw linseed oil and 
leave the patient alone in a comfortable place, where it 
cannot injure itself. Also give two drachm doses of 
bromide of potassium, every two or three hours until 
the physic operates, when, as a rule, the symptoms 
i^'j'^^^ide. 



244 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

STINGS OF BEES, WASPS AND HORNETS. 

Horses when in a sweating condition, should never 
be brought close to bees, especially when the bees are 
swarming. There is something in either the smell of 
the horse at that time or the salts of the sweat, that at- 
tracts their attention. A Avhole swarm of bees has been 
known to attack horses at such a time, with fatal re- 
sults. The sting of bees is very irritating to horses, on 
lu'count of the barbed stinger being left in the skin and 
the poisonous material given off from it. 

Treatment : — If the imbedded stinger can be found, it 
sliould be immediately extracted, either with the finger 
nails, a pair of forceps or a knife point, then immedi- 
ately covered with an application of wet clay, or bathed 
with ammonia or baking soda and water, or, 

kSugar of Lead one ounce. 

Water one pint. Mix. 



HIP LAKENESS. 



Hip lameness occurs in a manner similar to that of 
the shoulder. The causes being about the same, i! will 
not be necessary to recapitulate them. The symptoms 
vary from those of shoulder lameness, materially. 
AVlien the hip joint is affected, there is a hop and a 
catch in the lame leg and the movement of the afiected 
quarter will be greatly lessened. While at rest, the 
foot of the lame leg in bad cases, will be held clear 
from the ground. Heat may be felt near the joint and 
pressure upon the parts will cause pain. The muscles 
over the hip soon become atrophied or wasted away, 
causini!; what is lermed swinney. 



RUPTURE OF MUSCLES, 245 

Treatment: — The treatment is just the same as rec- 
ommended for shoulder lameness, including absolute 
rest for sometime, and with the exception of placing a 
high-heeled shoe on the ati'ected limV), to enable the 
parts to be maintained in a state of rest. 



RUPTURE OF MUSCLES. 

That muscles do become ruptured or torn is perfectly 
true, nevertheless these cases are seldom seen, except it 
may be in the muscle called tlexor metatarsi which is 
situated above the hock on the inner side of the limb 
and whose action is to tlex the hock. Muscles are rup- 
tured during a severe sprain or over-exertion, as in 
starting a heavy load and slipping, while the muscles 
are at full tension. 

Symptoms: — Severe lameness is observed if the ani- 
mal is forced to move and while the leg is raised, the 
hock will present the appearance of a dislodged ham- 
string. Some soreness, heat and swelling will be 
detected at tlio seat of the rupture. If the foot is 
placed squarely under the animal, it will stand upon it 
in a natural attitude, but there is an unwillingness to 
move either forward or l)ackward. If forced to move 
fore ward, the foot will l)e jerked upward and backward 
so high that a crease will be left in the muscles above 
the hock, presenting the appearance of a broken limb. 

Treatment : — The care and attention necessary for a 
ruptured muscle should be about the same as for a 
fractured bone. Place the animal in closely fitting 
slingis, boxing it in so as not to admit of any movement, 
either sideways, backwards or forwards, and keep in 
that position for about two months. In that time, the 
ends of the muscles will have grown together, when 



246 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

exercise should be given, or the animal may be put to 
moderate work so that the muscles will again develop. 
If there is much soreness, heat and swelling, occurring 
shortly after the rupture has taken place, it is best 
combatted with frequent fomentations of hot water, and 
between each bathing, use — 

Laudanum one ounce. 

Tinct. Arnica two ounces. . 

Witchhazel thirteen ounces. Mix. 

Apply until all the inflammation has subsided, then 
cease using anything and allow nature to complete the 
cure while the animal is resting in the slings. 



CHRONIC CATARRH— NASAL GLEET, OR OZOENA. 

Nasal gleet consists of a suppurative intlammation 
of the lining membrane (Schneiderian membrane) of 
the nostrils and of the sinuses in the bones of the front 
part of the face. It is sometimes confined to the nos- 
trils alone, but more frequently the sinuses are also 
affected. The principal cause, is a catarrhal inflamma- 
tion of the membrane, but it may also arise from ulcer- 
ated teeth. It may also be caused by injury to the face, 
enlargement of the fangs of the teeth, abscesses forming 
in the sinuses ; disease of the facial bones, or the lodg- 
ing of foreign bodies in the nostrils. 

Symptoms : — A constant discharge from the nostrils 
or more frequently from one nostril, as one side of the 
head alone is more frequently affected. This discharge 
is of a bluish white color and tenacious, very much 
resembling the discharge of glanders. But the glander- 
ous ulcerations are absent, although abrasions or excor- 
iations of the membrane are present, owing to irritating 
influence of the discharge. The sub-maxillary glands 



CHRONIC CATARRH — NASAL GLEET, OK OZOEMA. 247 

may be enlarged and if adherent to the jaw, should be 
looked upon with suspicion. Heat over the sinuses will 
generally be observed, and sometimes a bulging out in 
their locality. Percussion on the side affected, will 
])roduce a dull sound, compared to that given by its fel- 
low on the opposite side. This discharge is sometimes 
very offensive and when that is the case, the teeth 
should be examined thoroughly, as it is indicative of 
disease of the fangs. 

Treatment: — When the lining membrane of the nos- 
trils alone is affected, throw a spray up the nostrils of 
a five per cent, solution of listerine, and administer 
internally — 

Sulphate of Copper one ounce. 

Nux Vomica one ounce. 

Iodide of Potassium one ounce. Mix. 

Make into twelve powders and give one morning and 
evening. This will often effect a cure. But if the 
sinuses are affected and pus is contained therein, tre- 
phine the sinuses and evacuate all the pus. Then wash 
out thoroughly with a five per cent, solution of listerine 
twice daily. Also throw up the nostrils a spray of the 
same solution. If there is any diseased bone, or if there 
are any foreign bodies or a diseased tooth, a removal 
must be affected. This is best accomplished by tre- 
l)hining, as it opens the cavity so that treatment can be 
directly applied. The folloAving will suffice for a wash : 

Carbolic Acid one ounce. 

Soft Water one quart. Mix. 

Or, 

Sulphate of Zinc six drachms. 

Soft Water one pint. Mix. 

Syringe through the opening once or twice daily. 
The system should be kept up on tonics, as 



248 DISEASE-^ OE THE HOUSE. 

Sulphate of Iron four ounces. 

Powd. Nux Yoinicti two ounces. 

Gentian six ounces. 

Saltpetre three ounces. Mix. 

Give a teaspoonful mornin.ii; and evening. Give the 
most nutritive food obtainable and a moderate amount 
of exercise. 



BONE SPAVIN. 



Bone spavin consists in an irritation, sutficient to 
cause inflammation of the bones of the hock joint. 
When the inflammation exists between the bones, pro- 
ducing lameness, but witliout any osseous deposit 




SPAVIN. 

thrown out to form an enlargement, it is called occult 
spavin. But when there is an exudation of a bony- 
deposit thrown out, causing an enlargement on either 
the inner or outer aspect of the hock and inducing lame- 
ness, it is called a bone spavin. This may occur from 
various causes, but in the majority of cases it is the 



BONK SPAVIN. 



249 



result of a wrench or sprain. Still I am inclined to 
believe in the hereditary tendency to spavin. Whether 
it be in the peculiar confonuation of the hock which is 
marked and transmitted by certain sires, or if it be an 
ossific diathesis in the blood, I am unal^le to tell. But 
I have seen a colt not to exceed three months old, with 
well-defined ringbones and spavins causing lameness, 
"without any apparent reason therefor. And I could not 




BONE SPAVm. 

attrilnite it to overgrowth, with the consequent extra 
amount of weight to carry, for, in the majority of cases 
coming under my observation, it happened in small 
breeds of horses and the colts were only in moderately 
good keeping condition. Sometimes a small, bony 
enlargement is situated at the internal aspect of the 
hock. It is called jack spavin and seldom does very 
much harm, merely serving as an eye-sore. A horse 
with jack spavin should not be considered unsound, as 
!;iameness very seldom results therefrom. The symptoms 



• 7) ) 



I)I^p:AsI•:s of tjie iiokse. 



(if s]):iviii are lameness of a ])eeuliar character. The- 
animal, when lirst driven aftcn- rest, \\\\\ walk on the 
toe of the att'ected liml), with the fetlock bent forward 
and with a hoppini: movement of the hind parts. After 
drivinji' a short distance, it improves very much in its 
gait; the lameness diminislies and sometimes after the 
animal is driven some distance, the lameness disappears 
altoiiether. In other cases, after drivini;-, the lameness 




SPAVIN BONE FIRED. 

will diminish but still be quite perceptible. If in the 
stable, the animal is made to turn around in the stall, it 
does so with a stumbling, hopj^ing movement. On very 
forcibly flexing the leg at the hock, then dropping the 
foot and starting the horse on a trot, it will often go off 
on three legs. By sitting in front of the horse and look- 
ing toward the hock, you will perceive the enlargement, 
if there be any. By holding the hand over the antero- 
internal part of the hock, you will invariably detect fever. 

Treatment : — Various methods of treatment are used 
for spavin, but one very essential thing, and one upon. 



BONE SPAVIN. 251 

which all must agree, is that the animal must have 
absolute quiet and rest. If the spavin be just started, 
mild counter irritation will often etl'ect a cure; in this 
case, apply — 

Tinct. Cantharides two ounces. 

Spts. Turpentine two ounces. 

Sweet Oil four ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Cbttonseed Oil four ounces. 

Croton Oil one ounce. 

Oil Camphor two drachms. 

Oil Turpentine four drachms. 

Oil Origanum one drachm. 

Coal Oil one ounce. 

Sulphuric Acid forty drops. Mix. 

Apply once daily for six or eight weeks. If the, 
lamenese does not cease in that time, apply 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Red Iodide of Mercury. . . one drachm. 
Powd. Cantharides one drachm. Mix. 

Apply thoroughly; wash off in twenty-four hours 
and grease with fresh lard or oil, every day for five 
days. Then apply the foregoing prescription again, 
wash off as before and continue this treatment for 
three applications. Give the liorse complete rest and 
tie it while the medicine is on, so it cannot bite or ml) 
the place. In the course of five weeks, if this fails, 
apply the actual cautery (firing irons) and immediately 
afterward apply the before mentioned salve, as directed. 
If it be an occult spavin or if the true hock joint, that 
is the large cuneiform and astragalus bones are affected, 
a failure to cure is almost certain and the animal remains 
lame as long as it lives. The sole object in the treat- 
menl of bone spavin, is to prevent the horse from going 



252 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



lame and this is accomplished only when the inflamma- 
tion exists between the cuneiform and metatarsal bones, 
and you establish complete union between those bones 
thus preventing irritation from their gliding motion. 



BOG SPAVIN. 

This -sometimes consists of an inflammation of the 
hock joint, but not always. I have seen bog spavin 
gradually developing upon horses, without the existence 
of any perceptible inflammation. This kind is generally 




BOG SPAVIN. 

found in horses which have weak or very upright hocks. 
It consists of a fluctuating swelling, situated at the 
antero-internal and upper part of the hock, and com- 
posed of synovia or joint oil. It is nature's remedy to 
prevent disease by having an abundance of oil to lubri- 
cate the joint during work or violent exercise. This 
si ould be considered merely a blemish and not a dis- 
ease. But when it is caused by overwork, sprains or 



BLOOD SPAVIN. 253 

wounds it is considered to be more serious. It is then 
acc()nii)anied by heat and lameness, varying in their 
intensity. When bog- spavin occurs from these causes, 
or from rlieumatic trouble, absolute rest should he 
given, and the part fomented with hot water three 
times a day for a few days. Then apply 

Tinct. Oantharides two ounces. 

Tinct. Iodine one ounce. 

Tinct. Capsicum two ounces. 

Alcohol three ounces. Mix. 

Or the following blister: 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Red Iodide of Mercury .... one drachm. 

Powd. Oantharides one drachm. Mix. 

After the lamenes ceases, stop treatment and allow 
nature to take its course. Sometimes bog spavin causes 
tlioroughpin and when this is the case, treat as for bog 
spavin alone. 



BLOOD SPAVIN. 



This is a distension of the large vein that passes 
down over the anterior and internal part of the hock, 
and is caused from pressure upon the vein, arresting or 
preventing a free circulation of blood, thus damming it 
up to a certain extent, and in this manner causing a dis- 
tension of the coats of the vein to a greater or lesser 
extent, leaving an enlargement that is soft to the touch 
and can usually be rubbed away. They seldom produce 
lameness and cause no harm. When examined with 
the hand, a blood spavin is found to be soft and pliable 
and by rubbing it for a time, it will disappear. No 
trt atment will give better results than frequent rubbing. 



254 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

OCCULT SPAVIN. 

When inflanunation exists between the bones of the 
Lock, producing lameness without any enkirgement to 
sight or touch, it is called an occult spavin, or hidden 
spavin. A deposit of bone material may form a partial 
or complete union of the small bones of the hock, caus- 
ing intense lameness, and yet the hock to all appear- 
ances, will be perfect and smooth. 

Causes : — It is caused in the same manner as bone 
s[)avin; by concussion to the ends of the bones, slipping 
while at play, hauling or starting a heavy load. In the 
majority of cases, it is the result of a wrench or sprain 
snfficient to cause a laceration of ligamentous attach- 
ments in the internal part of the hock, and in many 
other ways by which the hock receives injury. Yet 
spavin may occur without any injury. My own experi- 
ence has convinced me, of the hereditary disposition to 
spavin in certain families of horses, it being transmitted 
from one generation to another and sometimes occuring 
at a very early age. 

Symptoms : — The same symptoms are observable in 
o cult as in bone spavin. When first driven, after rest, 
will walk on the toe of the affected limb with the fet- 
lo(.'k bent forward and with a hopping movement of the 
hind parts. While at rest, the animal frequently stands 
upon its toe with the heel raised and the hock 
flexed. If made to stand over in the stall, it stands on 
the toe of the affected limb and hops over. After 
liaving been driven and allowed to cool off, take hold of 
the toe of the affected limb and raise it up high, forcibly 
flexing the leg at the hock, holding it in that position 
for a minute, then dropping the foot and starting the 
animal on a trot, it will often go on three legs. This is 
one of the best tests for occult spavin. In the majority 



STIFLE-JOINT LAMENESS, ETC. 255 

of cases of spavin, after driving a short distance there 
is much improvement in g,ait; the lameness diminislies 
and sometimes, after driving some distance, the hime- 
ness disappears altogether. In other cases the lameness 
is continuous. The treatment for occult spavin is just 
the same as for bone spavin, but more persistence may 
be necessary, as it usually takes a greater length of 
time to effect a cure, and not infrequently the lameness 
continues through life. 



STIFLE-JOINT LAMENESS AND DISLOCATION OF THE 

PATELLA. 

Stitle-joint lameness is usually detected by the man- 
ner in which the horse brings the foot forward, which is 



STIFLE-JOINT LAMENESS. 

done with difficulty, the leg swinging outward with a 
circular motion and dragging the toe (although they do 
not always drag the toe). The foot is sometimes raised 
clear of the ground, but with the circular motion, and 
placed flat on the ground. Whilst the animal is at rest 
the leg is usually in a semi-flexed position. Heat around 
the stifle joint is quite a prominent symptom, but is 
sometimes wanting. Sometimes quite a prominent 
symptom is a fluctuating swelling or dropsy of the joint. 



25() DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

If you have dislocation of the patella, or what is more 
commonly called " stitled joint," you will observe that 
while the horse is standing in the stall, it may stand 
squarely upon both feet; but, if you force it to walk 
the stifled leg will fly backward and the animal is pow- 
erless to bring it forward. If you examine the joint 
you will find the patella on the outer side of the leg and^ 
the groove in the femur may be felt quite plainly. 

Treatment: — When lameness is present in the stiHe- 
joint, without dislocation, give absolute rest and apply 
hot fomentations of water three or four times a day, to 
tillay the inflammation. Then apply 

Acjua Ammonia two ounces. 

Spts. Turpentine two ounces. 

Olive Oil four ounces. Mix. 

Apply three or four times daily, until you blister 
thoro'iighly. Then allow to rest for three or four days 
and rt'peat several times in tliis manner. If the patella 
is dislocated, fasten a rope or strap around the fetlock, 
then pass it through the collar and draw the leg for- 
ward; no matter if the patient struggles hard, force it 
forward. Then place your hand behind the bone, 
which will be felt at the outside of the leg, and force it 
forward, when you will feel it drop into place and the 
patient will have full control of its leg. Apply 

Tincture Cantharides two ounces. 

(Spirits Turpentine two ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia one ounce. 

Sweet Oil four ounces. Mix. 

Or, use the former pref?eription, three. or four times 
a day for two or three days ; allow the patient to rest 
for a week and all will be well. If the patient kicks it 
out or it drops out of its own accord immediately 
a ter you have placed it in position, you must apply one 
of the former prescriptions until it blisters thoroughly, 



RINGBONE. 



257 



and the SAvelling will force it into position and 
strengthen the ligaments that have been relaxed. 
Then allow a longer rest than would ordinarily be 
required, or apply the following: 

Vaseline one onnce. 

Powdered Cantharides . . . two drachms. Mix. 
Wash of!' in twenty-four hours and grease every day 
for three days ; then apply again and grease every day 
until well. 



RINGBONE. 



Ringbone very much resembles spavin, except in 
location. Ringbone consists of an osseous deposit upoji 
the upper and lower pastern-bones. When the deposit is 




KINGBONE. 



around the middle of the large pastern and not involving 
the joint, it is called an osselet or false ring-bone, and is 
seldom the cause of ^lameness; it should not be looked 
upon as an unsoundness, oe if f nils for no treatment what- 



"258 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

ever. True ringbone acts very dilTerently from the false, 
and occasions more or less lameness. It may affect two 
very important articulations, viz., the articulation be- 
tween the large and small pastern, or between the small 
pastern and the coffin bone. The former articulation is 
the one most frequently affected, and where complete 
union is most easily obtained ; here less stifl'ness will be 
the result if a cure results, than where the lower joint is 




EINGBONE. 

diseased. But in either location, the disease is difficult 
to treat with any satisfaction and it is sometimes incur- 
able, the lameness continuing through life. •* Some- 
times the deposit completely encircles the joint; at 
others is on one side, and directly in front of the joint. 
Tlie degree of lameness does not depend upon the size 
of the enlargement but more upon its location. If it is 
situated immediately in front of the pastern, the lame- 
ness.,will be greater than when situated on either side. 
The lameness is greatest, when the deposit is between 
the lower pastern and the coffin bone. When between 



RINGBONE, 259 

these two bones, it frequently causes a bulj^ing of the 
foot and not seldom causes the foot to turn inward, 
forming what is known as reel-foot. The lameness of 
ringbone alway precedes the deposit and is caused by 
inflammation existing in the bone or in the synovial 
membrane surrounding it. Ringbone is occasioned by 
sprain ; by fractured bone ; and by the hereditary ten- 
dency, referred to in the treatise on spavin. 

Treatment: — When first noticed there will be no 
enlargement but considerable lameness and fever. 
Then apply hot water freely to allay the intlammatiou 
and after bathing, apply the following : 

Spirits Chloroform two ounces. 

Laudanum two ounces. 

Witchhazel four ounces. 

Tincture Aconite one-half ounce. Mix. 

If the lameness continues after ten days' treatment 
apply— 

Vaseline two ounces. 

Red Iodide of Mercury., two drachms. 

Cantharides three drachms. Mix. 

Make three applications, with intermissions of four 
or five days between each two applications. Give abso- 
lute rest and if the patient is inclined to walk upon the 
toe, use high calks upon the heal of the shoe. But if 
inclined to walk upon its heel, use a thin-heeled bar 
shoe. If lameness continues, use the firing irons. Fire 
it deeply as illustrated in spavin and in a few days 
apply— 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Powd. Cantharides two drachms. Mix. 

Apply once a week for tliree or four applications. If 
all these fail, the cutting out of the plantar nerves may 
be performed with varying success. 



260 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

SPRAIN OF THE SUSPENSORY LIGAMENT. 

This is a very large ligament composed of white 
fibrous tissue, and extends from the knee in the foreleg 
and from the hock in the liind leg, down the back part 
of the cannon bones. Just above the fetlock it divides 
and becomes attached to the sesamoid bones, below 
which it reunites and joins the flexors of the foot. 
Sprains of tliis ligament happen only through severe 




POSITION OF THE FOOT IN LAMENESS. 

exertions, and sometimes the strain is sufficient to cause 
rupture of the ligament. This generally happens near 
the dividing point, just above the fetlock. The most 
prominent symptoms are lameness, heat, and swelling 
beneath the flexor tendons and down beliindthe cannon 
bones, with swelling of the leg at the fetlock joint. The 
animal stands or walks upon the toe, the fetlock joint 
is flexed to relieve the ligament of tension. If the lig- 
ament is ruptured, the fetlock will spring down close to 
the ground and the toe will be turned upward. The 
rupture may occur higher up, or at the attachment of 
the ligament to the sesamoid bones, or even below the 
fetlock ; the result is the same. This is what is meant 
b}" the term, " broken down." 



SPRAIN OF THE FETLOCK JOINT AND SESAMOIDITES. 261 

Treatment: — Absolute rest in a comfortable box stall, 
well bedded, to entice the patient to lie down. Bathe 
with cold water, after which apply bandages and keep 
wet with cold water. After the fever has subsided 
apply to remove the swelling, 

Tincture Iodine two ounces. 

Red Iodide of Mercury . . .two drachms. 

Tincture of Myrrh and 

Capsicum six ounces. Mix. 

Apply three times a day, or 

Powdered Oantharides . . two drachms. 

Vaseline one ounce. Mix. 

Apply every two weeks until three applications have 
been made. If the ligament is ruptured, bandage the 
leg in a set of splints, so as to hold it in a proper posi- 
tion. Heavy belting makes a good support for the 
limb, by cutting it to fit, and packing the space between 
the fetlock joint and the heel to form a prop. This 
will hold the limb in proper shape. Or put on a bar 
shoe and fasten an iron brace to it, bending it to fit the 
fetlock and extending it up to the knee. Pad it well 
with cotton batting and bandage. After complete union 
is secured, remove the support and l)lisier a few times 
to remove the swelling. Horses that have once "broken 
down," or ruptured the suspensory ligament, should not 
be put on the track nor at heavy pulling; but they may 
l)e used to good advantage for ordinary work, after a 
rest of six or eight months. 



SPRAIN OF THE FETLOCK JOINT AND SESAMOIDITES. 

It is possible to have sprain of the fetlock joint or of 
its lateral ligaments, without injury to the sesamoid 
bursa; but such cases, I think are very rare. Owing to 
the particular manner in which the sesamoid bones are 



2(>2 DISEASES OE THE H0R8E. 

placed behind the joint, over which the flexor perforans 
tendons play, I am constrained to believe that any exer- 
tion sufficient to cause sprain of the fetlock joint, will, 
at the same time produce inflammation of the sesamoid 
bursa. 

Symptoms: — If the sprain is very slight, lameness 
will scarcely be perceptible, appearing only while 
traveling upon uneven ground and the joint is twisted a 
little ; but if the sprain is severe, the lameness will be 
80 intense that the animal will go on its toe or hobble 
on three legs. The joint swells and is quite hot, and 
when the animal is resting, the leg is flexed at the 
joint, the toe resting upon the ground. 

Treatment : — Apply cold water frequently and band- 
age until the fever subsides, then use 

Tinct. Iodine two ounces. 

Witchhazel two ounces. 

Alcohol four ounces. Mix. 

Apply morning and evening and bandage, or 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Powdered Oantharides. . two drachms. Mix. 

Apply every ten days until three applications have 
been made. Complete rest should be given for a 
month. If you consider the ligaments ruptured, a 
plaster of paris bandage should be applied, the same as 
for fracture, and allowed to remain on for a month. If 
any swelling remains, a few applications of the above 
blister will greatlv assist in removing it. 



SPRAIN OF THE FLEXOR TENDONS. 

Sprain of the flexor tendons, like the sprain of the 
Buspensory ligament, is caused by heavy pulling and 
fast running or trotting ; also by wearing shoes with 



SPRAINS OF THE FLEXOK TENDONS. 



263 



high toe calks. The symptoms observed will be lame- 
ne'ss, heat and swelling at the back part of the leg, and 
the peculiar way in which the horse moves the limb, 
which is with a stiff, stubby movement; the toe touches 
the ground first and the horse bears most of its weight 




BACK TENDONS THICKENED FROM 
INJURY OR SPRAIN. 

upon it, seldom bringing the heel to the ground during 
the first stages. After it becomes chronic, or the more 
severe symptoms have subsided, the heels will be 
brought to the ground, there will be a shortening of the 
tendons and a knuckling over of the fetlock joint. The 
swelling, which is a prominent symptom, will diverge 
from the seat of the sprain and extend up and down the 
tendon, involving the thecae, or sheaths of the tendons 
to such a degree, that the tendons with difficulty pass 
through them. 

Treatment : — Shoe the horse with a bar shoe without 
calks, to give the shoe an even pressure when standing. 
This will prevent shortening of the tendons, which is 
likely to occur with high heel calks, which only afford 



264 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

temporary relief. Apply cold bandages, occasionally 
pouring on cold water until the fever subsides. Then 
apply one of the following mixtures, three times a day : 

Tincture Iodine one ounce. 

Red Iodide of Mercury 

one and one-half draclims. 

Tincture Myrrh and Capsi- 
cum seven ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Tincture Cantharides two ounces. 

Tincture Iodine one ounce. 

Tincture Capsicum two ounces. 

Alcohol three ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Oil Cedar four drachms. 

Oil Hemlock four drachms. 

Oil of Tansy four drachms. 

Oil of Wormwood four drachms. 

Alcohol eight ounces. Mix. 

If shortening of the tendons should take place, ten- 
otomy may be performed, if the patient is a young 
horse. But if an old horse, the operation had better be 
let alone. The operation is performed by casting the 
horse and securing it tirmly. Then loosen the leg to be 
operated upon ; fasten it as straight out as possible by a 
rope or strap tied to the fetlock. Make a small incision 
midway between the knee and the fetlock, the smaller 
the incision the better. Pass the knife flat-wise beneath 
the tendons, taking care to keep outside the blood ves- 
sels, until you feel the knife against the skin on the 
opposite side. Then turn the edge of the knife towards 
the tendons and cut outward very slowly until you have 
severed the tendons. Then withdraw the knife. Be 
very careful to only cut the skin in one place and that a 
very small opening, where the knife enters. Place 



ELBOW LAMENESS. 265 

your knee against the leg and forcibly straighten it, to 
break up any adhesions which may have formed. 
After the operation, keep the leg straight by putting on 
a shoe with a high toe-calk ; or fasten a piece of iron to 
the shoe and let it extend six inches in front of the foot. 
If the toe should turn up a little, have no fear, for 
when the tendons grow together it may shorten a little 
too much. After union has taken place, remove the 
thickening with a few applications of the last pre- 
scription. 



ELBOW LAMENESS. 



Disease of the elbow is not an infrequent occurrence- 
Symptoms: — While standinji, the horse holds its leg 
in a peculiar manner — carried well back, the leg flexed 
and resting upon the toe. In walking, the limb is 
brought forward with difficulty and when putting it to 
the ground to make the step, the patient drops the head 
and shoulder as if about to fall. There may not be 
very much heat or swelling. If there is fracture of the 
point of the elbow, you will see the excessive dropping 
of the head and shoulder; the leg will be flexed or 
seemingly in a pendulous condition, with heat and 
swelling and pain upon pressure. Sometimes "capped 
cll)ow" causes lameness, but not always; when it does, 
yon do not have such excessive dropping of the head. 

Treatment: — If there is lameness, without swelling or 
heat, apply three ti«es a day of — 

Oil of Cedar four drachms. 

Oil of Wormwood four drachms. 

Oil of Tnnsy four drachms. 

Oil of Hemlock four drachms. 

Alcohol eiglit ounces. Mix. 



266 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

Allow sufficient rest and a cure will result. If there 
is fracture of the elbow, swing the patient up immedi- 
ately and feed on soft food. Apply splints, and bandage 
from the knee up above the elbow to hold it in position 
and keep the patient swung up until complete union has 
taken place, which will be in from six to ten weeks. 
Broad rubber belting, makes a good splint and bandage 
combined. If the lameness comes from capped elbow 
(usually caused by the horse lying with its elbows resting 
upon the heels of its shoes), remove the shoes and place a 
roll of sheepskin, or other soft material, around the back 
part of the fetlock, to prevent the feet from irritating 
the bruise. Then apply hot water to the elbow until the 
inflammation subsides, wlien the lameness will usually 
disappear. But, to remove the enlargement, make a free 
incision low down to allow the fluid to escape : then 
apply some irritating substance to cause it to slough 
out. After it heals and there is a small nodule left, dis- 
sect it out and treat as an ordinary wound. Widen the 
stall and allow plenty of room for the animal to lie- 
dctwn. 



CARPITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE KNEES. 

Inflammation of the knees may arise from different 
causes, such as concussion, rheumatism, sprains, etc. 
The animal is observed to hold the leg stiff' and to- 
exhibit intense pain upon either flexion or extension of 
the knee. If the animal walks, it will carry the leg 
stifily. Sometimes there is a swelling of the knee ; at 
others, no swelling whatever is perceptible. If the 
disease exists between the bones, there will be no swel- 
ling until an exudation is thrown out, and when tliia 
happens, a stiff' knee is almost certain to be the result. 



BROKEN OR BRUISED KNEES. 267 

Treatment ; — Give complete rest and, if thought nec- 
essary, phice the patient in slings. Use applications of 
cold water until the fever subsides; then apply a strong 
blister, as — 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Red Iodide of Mercury one drachm. 

Cantharides one drachm. Mix. 

Use repeatedly. If there is a fluctuating swelling in 
front of the knee, puncture it and allow the fluid to 
escape, after which apply a w^et bandage and keej) it 
wet. Should it fail to disappear, apply the foregoing 
blister. 



BROKEN OR BRUISED KNEES. 

Whenever you see a bruise or a scar upon the knees 
of a horse, the animal, as regards value, should be 
looked upon with suspicion, unless the horse has good, 
free action and the l)ruise is known to be purely acci- 




BROKEN KNEE. 

dental. For a majority of cases arise from faulty action 
of the fore legs, vertigo or fits, "speed cut" or inter- 
fering, diseased feet or navicular disease; over-reacl)- 
ing; or from bad shoeing, and possibly from the driver's 
awkwardness. The disease is more frequently noticed 
in the form of bruises than as broken bones. 



268 DISEASES OF THE HOUSE. 

Treatment: — When bruises exist, without any abra- 
sion of the skin, apply cold water frequently, with 
dressings of vaseline. Give rest, with good, deep l)ed- 
ding, and probably no other treatment will be neces- 
sary. But when the skin is lacerated, if none of the 
deeper tissues are involved, wash the wound well and 
bring its edges together with heavy court-plaster, leav- 
ing an opening below for the escape of pus ; give rest 
and tie the horse up so it cannot lie down, to prevent it 
from breaking any of the adhesions while flexing the 
leg. Never use any stitches, as any movement of the 
knee will tend to tear them out. Where, besides the 
laceration of the skin, deeper tissues are involved, so 
that the tendons and synovial membrane are torn, and 
" open joint" is the result, you have a more serious 
case in hand. The w^ound may set up an extensive 
inflammation, the surrounding parts become greatly 
swollen, followed by so extensive a sloughing of the 
parts as to expose the bone. There will then be con- 
siderable constitutional disturbance, high fever, loss of 
appetite, bowels constipated, diflicult voiding of the 
urine, and a foetid discharge from the wound. It is then 
as serious as a broken bone and the animal should be 
destroyed, unless valuable for breeding purposes. If 
the animal is to be preserved, force the leg out straight 
and fasten it with splints to maintain it in that position, 
leaving the knee exposed for treatment. Wash it out 
three times a day with tepid water and castile soap and 
apply one of the following three times a day : 

Zinc Sulphate two drachms. 

Acetate of lead four drachms. 

Carbolic Acid two drachms. 

Soft Water one pint. Mix. 

Or, 



SHOULDER SLIP OR SWINNEY. 269 

Permanganate of Potassium. . 

one drachm. 

Tannin one drachm. 

Distilled Water one pint. Mix. 

Or, 

Listorine two ounces. 

Carbolic Acid one drachm. 

Distilled Water six ounces. Mix. 



SHOULDER SLIP OR SWINNEY. 

This disease generally termed '' swinuey," consists 
in atrophy, or wasting away, of the antea and postea 
spinatus muscles. A brief description of the parts 




swinnp:y akd capped elbow. 
forming the shoulder joint, will facilitate an under- 
standing of the matter. The glenoid cavity, or hollow 
in the lower end of the shoulder bone, is very small 
compared with, the head of the humerus, which plays 
within it, thus giving it great freedom of motion, espe- 



270 DISEASES OF THE HOKSE. 

cially as the joint is not bound down with inelastic liga- 
ments, but by muscles and tendons only. The ante;i 
and postea spinatus muscles occupy the outer surface of 
the shoulder blade and extend down over the external 
and lateral surface of the joint. The sub-scapularis 
muscle occupies the inner surface of the shoulder blade 
and extends down over the inner and lateral surface of 
the joint. The coraco humeralis muscle extends down 
over the front of the joint. So it will be seen that, 
vvlien the external muscles are wasted away (atrophied) 
there is nothing left strong enough to hold the joint to 
its proper position, and it has an outward movement or 
slipping — but not a dislocation. It may be caused by a 
bruise, heavy pulling, or walking on uneven ground, a8 
the furrow horse is compelled to do while plowing. It 
is more frequently seen in young horses, used for plow- 
ing, especially in the spring when the muscles are soft 
and tlaccid. 

Symptoms : — There are generally swelling, heat and 
tenderness, all along the external surface of the shoul- 
der blade; but in the majority of cases, the patient 
shows no lameness until the swelling and heat have 
subsided and atrophy, or wasting of the muscles, has 
begun. This generally takes place in a week or two, 
from the time of the injury. The hollow space is usually 
the full length of the shoulder blade, and is sometimes 
very deep, so that the spine of the bone is prominent. 

Treatment: — During the inflammatory stage, while 
there is heat and swelling, foment well with hot water 
and after the swelling has disappeared, apply a mild 
stimulating liniment, as 

Ammonia one ounce. 

Turpentine two ounces. 

Sweet Oil live ounces. Mix. 

Or, 



ATROPHY OF THK MUSCLES — SWINNKY. 271 

Oil of Cedar one-Ii;ilf ounce. 

Oil of Tansy one-half ounce. 

Oil of Hemlock one-half ounce. 

Oil of Wormwood one-half ounce. 

Alcohol ten ounces. Mix. 

LTse three times a day, rubhinu in th<)rt)U.iihly. Do 
not be afraid of rubbing, as it stimulates the muscles to 
development. Use at light work on level ground, or - 
turn out to pasture, for the patient needs exercise to 
develop the muscles. Do not be discouraged, but he 
persistent in your treatment, as it frequently takes six 
months, and sometimes a year, before the hollow is 
filled up and the muscles fully developed. If it seems 
very slow, apply at intervals the following: 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Eed Iodide of Mercury. . . one drachm. 
Cantharides. . one and a-half drachms. Mix. 

If you are persistent, success will crown your effort 
and reward your trouble. 



ATROPHY OF THE MUSCLES— SWINNEY. 

This consists in a shrinking or wasting away of the 
muscles and is most frequently seen at the shoulders and 
hips. It may, however, manifest itself upon any part 
of the limbs or body. It is caused by sprains, bruises, 
severe and continued pressure, paralysis, rheumatism, 
continued lameness of the foot or limb or anything in 
fact, Avhereby a certain set of muscles do not receive 
sufficient exercise. 

Symptoms: — A flattened or hollow space will be 
observed instead of the full, round, plump muscles. 
When occurring at a certain point, compare it with the 



272 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

same point on the opposite side, and a flattening or 
wasting away will be observed. 

Treatment : — Atrophy of the mnscles and swinney 
mean one and the same thing; therefore, the same 
treatment may be used as outlined under the head of 
"Swinney." Any manner of treatment, however, will 
in some instances, fail to redevelop the muscles but it is 
well to be persistent for a continued length of time. 



SHOULDER LAMENESS. 

Shoulder lameness may arise from different causes, 
but the most frequent are kicks, bruises, sprains and 
rheumatism. It is characterized by the peculiar man- 
ner in which the patient holds the leg, which is flexed 




SHOULDER LAMENESS. 

and resting upon the toe ; also the great ditfieulty with 
which the leg is brought forward in walking, with at 
the same time, a dragging of the toe. If from kicks or 
bruises, the lameness will be observed at the injured 
place ; but if from sprain of the coraco humeralis 
muscle, which plays on the front of the joint in the 
form of a tendon, there will be observed flexing of the 
limb and great difliculty in bringing it forward, with 
Bw^elling heat and tenderness upon pressure at the point 
of the shoulder. As inflammation of a tendon frequently 
results in formation of bone material, you will readily 
ee the need of prompt and careful treatment. 



lUlEUMATISM. 27S 

Treatment : — Put on a very high heeled shoe and apply 
frequent fomentations of hot water; or place a rug on 
the point of the shoulder and keep applying hot water 
until the inflammation has subsided. Then remove the 
shoes and keep quiet on a level floor, and apply the fol- 
lowing three times a day : 

Tincture Iodine two ounces. 

Witchhazel two ounces. 

Alcohol four ounces Mix. 

Or, 

Oil of Cedar one-half ounce. 

Oil of Hemlock one-half ounce. 

Oil of Wormwood one-half ounce. 

Tincture of Iodine one ounce. 

Alcohol eight ounces. Mix. 

Allow the patient to rest for sometime, and use only 
at light work for at least four months. 



RHEUMATISM. 



This is a peculiar disease, and none too thoroughly 
understood. It attacks the fibrous structure, such as 
muscles, tendons, etc. It is apt to move suddenly from 
one joint to another, from one set of muscles to another, 
or to some internal organ, as the heart. It is seldom 
that acute rheumatism terminates in chronic rheuma- 
tism, or that the reverse occurs. Chronic rheumatism 
is met with most frequently among the domesticated 
animals. 

Symptoms : — The patient will appear dull and stupid 
with an inclination to be let alone and not to be moved 
about. If the affection be in the limbs or joints and the 
animal be forced to move, it either goes very lame or ia 
very stiff. The parts affected may be swollen and hard, 



274 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

or, if in the joint, soft and fluctuating; or there may 
not be any swelling, but a crackling noise at the joints 
when moved. There is generally fever with a full, hard 
pulse, increased temperature, hurried breathing, cos- 
tiveness and scanty, high-colored urine. If acute rheu- 
matism, the disease will generally terminate in about 
six or eight weeks ; but, if chronic, it may last until 
warm weather comes. 

Treatment : — Give as a physic — 

Powdered Aloes one ounce. 

Powdered Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Administer at one dose ; and, if the pain be exces- 
sive, give ounce doses of laudanum, to be followed by — 

Salicylic Acid two ounces. 

Bi-Carbonate of Soda two ounces. Mix. 

Make sixteen powders. Give one powder three 
times a day, to be followed by — 

Acetate of Potassium one ounce. 

Bi-Carbonate of Soda one ounce. 

■ Nitrate of Potassium 

one and one-half ounces. Mix. 

Make twelve powders and give one powder three 
times a day. Apply hot cloths, hot bran, hot corn, 
hot salt, or make the following liniment : 

Spirits of Chloroform two ounces. 

Laudanum two ounces. 

Tincture of Arnica two ounces. 

Witchhazel two ounces. Mix. 

Apply two or three times a day. 
Or, 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. 

Spirits of Turpentine two ounces. 

Sweet Oil four ounces. Mix. 



SPKAmED BACK, 



275 



Apply two or three times a day. ¥"011 may also give, 
with benefit, liquid ammonia acetate, two ounces three 
times a day ; but the treatment is seldom very satisfac- 
torv. 



SPRAINED BACK. 

Sprained back is not of frequent occurrence, but it 
may happen from the hind feet slipping, while the ani- 
mal is pulling hard to start a heavy load, or from its 
struggling when cast in the stall. The psoas muscles, 




SPRAINED BACK. 

which are the seat of the sprain, are situated under- 
neath the lumber vertebrae, and are attached anteriorly 
to the heads of the last ribs and dorsal vertebrae and 
posteriorly to the brim of the pelvis and internal tro- 
chanter of the femur; their action is to bend the 
haunch upon the pelvis, and when the horse is pulling, 



276 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

to produce the a^pearan<}e of a " roached back." When 
sprained, these muscles lose their tone and power, and 
instead of a " roached back" there will be the reverse, 
except there will be swelling over the loins, which is 
frequently the case. If both the psoas muscles are 
strained, the animal will be unable to rise from a 
recumbent position, though when placed on its feet, it 
may stand; it will walk with a drunken, staggering 
gait and, a knuckling over of the fetlocks. It is easily 
distinguished from broken back by the power to move 
its limbs, and the sense of feeling in the hind extremity. 
Examination per rectum, reveals heat and swelling, 
with pain upon pressure along the spine. After these 
symptoms have passed away and the animal is restored 
to usefulness, there will be a weakness of the back for 
some months, or until the muscles are again fully 
developed and regain their natural power and tone. 

Treatment : — If the patient is able to stand, place the 
slings under it, but if unable to stand, you had better 
let the slings alone. Aj^ply frequently, hot fomenta- 
tions across the loins and afterwards use — 

Tincture of Arnica four ounces. 

Chloroform one ounce. 

Laudanum two ounces. 

Witchhasel three ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Aqua Ammonia 

one and one-half ounces. 

Turpentine. . .one and one-half ounces. 

Olive oil five ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Tincture of Iodine two ounces. 

Oil of Hemlock one-half ounce. 

Oil of Wormwood one-half ounce. 

Oil of Origanum one ounce. 

Alcohol four ounces. Mix. 



WOUNDS AT THE JOINTS, ETC. 277 

Apply three times a day. If the patient is dragging 
along and not improving very rapidly, in the course of 
a month apply a good blister across the loins and it will 
help materially to develop the muscles, and to regain 
their natural tone and power. A blister may be 
applied every two or three weeks ; the following will 
answer nicely : 

Vaseline two ounces. 

Red Iodide of Mercury .... 

one and one-half drachms. 

Powdered Cantharides. . .two drachms. Mix. 



WOUNDS AT THE JOINTS— INFLAMMATIOIi OF THE 
JOINTS, OR OPEN JOINT. 

An open joint may be caused by a puncture from a 
knife, from splinters of wood, or by the prongs of a 
fork ; or by bruises, by kicks, or by lacerations from 
falling on a hard or rough surface. It is always attended 
with more or less danger. 

Symptoms : — If the opening is small with but a trilling 
leakage from the joints, the patient will not at first 
exhibit any distressing symptoms; but in the course of 
a few days it will manifest pain by going very lame and 
possibly, not resting upon the limb at all but holding it 
uf) and keeping it in continuous motion, on account of 
severe pain. The leakage will then be more profuse 
and accumulate on the outer edge of the wound. The 
patient will now lose its appetite, and have very high 
fever with constipation. The pulse will be quick, hard 
and -wiry; and, from extreme pain, the patient will 
break out in a sweat. If at this stage the patient does 
not receive prompt attention, the disease will continue 
in force, and from between the opening and the accum- 
ulation on the outer edge of the wound, a thin watery 



278 DISEASES OP THE HORSE. 

discharge, accompanied by streaks of blood and small 
scales of cartilage and bone, will issue. The ends of 
the bone entering into the formation of the joint are 
now undergoing a destructive change, and a cure can 
only be effected by a consolidation of the joint. A stiff 
joint is inevitable; and if it be a joint requiring great 
motion the patient had better be destroyed. During 
the whole time, the tissues surrounding the joint will 
be enlarged and inflamed, sometimes very hard and at 
others soft and doughy. 

Treatment : — Two things are very essential to a fav- 
orable termination. The first is endeavoring to heal 
the wound by the adhesive process (or first intention) 
and thus prevent suppuration. The second, is prevent- 
ing the air from penetrating the joint, thus avoiding 
extensive inflammation. Never probe around in the 
wound to find if there be any dirt, gravel or any other 
foreign substances lodged there, but wash it out care- 
fully with a sponge, and syringe with tepid water ; if 
any foreign substance be found, remove it carefully. 
If the tissues are lacerated, cut off the small particles 
that will not adhere, but do not cut the skin, and bring 
the edges of the wound together Avith stitches of catgut ; 
then place half a teaspoonful of iodoform upon the 
wound and bandage. Immediately after, place the 
animal in slings, as it not only affords the patient com- 
plete rest but prevents the stitches from being torn out 
by the flexing of the limb in lying down. If complete 
union is effected and there is enlargement of the joint 
with some inflammation apply a good blister. If there 
is not complete union of the parts and they burst out, 
and the synovia, or "joint oil," comes oozing out, 
accompanied by pus, you then can only expect to heal 
by granulation. The best method to secure this is to 
apply a good blister, as it not only sets up a healthy 



STRINGHALT. 279 

inflammation but frequently produces a swelling suffi- 
cient to bring the edges of the wound together, thus 
excluding the air and, before the swelling subsides, 
forming granulations enough to close the wound, and so 
effecting a cure. The following is a good blister : 

Vaseline two ounces. 

Powdered Cantharides. .four drachms. Mix. 
Apply every third day for four applications. If much 
swelling remains after the wound is healed, apply 

Tincture Iodine two ounces. 

Oil Hemlock half ounce. 

Oil Wormwood half ounce. 

Oil Origanum one ounce. 

Alcohol four ounces. Mix. 

Apply once or twice daily with smart friction. 
If small abscesses form around the joint and cause 
much pain, open them ; if they do not cause much pain, 
allow them to burst. The constitutional treatment 
should be to open the bowels with a physic — 

Aloes one ounce. 

Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose. Then give three times a day one 
powder of the following : 

Quinine Sulphate four drachms. 

Nitrate of Potassium two ounces. 

Bi-Carbonate of Soda one ounce. Mix. 

Make into twelve powders. For the first few days 
feed on a soft diet, as bran mash, chopped feed, etc. 
Afterwards feed on the most nutritious diet in limited 
quantities, to build up the strength. 



STRINGHALT. 



This disease consists of an involuntary spasmodic 
contraction of the muscles of the hind leg. The horse 
raises and lowers the foot in a j)eculiar manner, with a 



280 DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 

quick, jerky motion, which it cannot control. Th© 
causes are not thoroughly understood. It is by some 
attributed to injuries ; by others to inflammation of the 
nerves, and others still attribute it to tumors variously 
situated — as in the brain, in the spinal cord, in th» 
muscles of the legs, etc. ; and some attribute it to a 
peculiar condition of the blood. These theories are all 




STRmOHALT. 

suppositions ; possibly all are, to a certain extent, true. 
The disease generally comes on very slowly but may de- 
velop very rapidly, even in so short a time as twenty-four 
hours. At first the foot may be slightly elevated, with 
a quick, jerking motion, and brought to the ground in the 
same manner. This may be noticed in the winter season, 
and during the heated months the animal may travel all 
right. When this is the case, it may be regarded as a 
rheumatic form of stringhalt. If it does not improve 
during the summer months, as age advances the disease 



ARTHRITIS, SYNOVITIS, ETC. 281 

^mdually continues to grow worse, until the horse strikes 
the belly with the fetlock. The disease is purely nervous 
in nature, as, for instance, should the animal pick up a 
nail with the foot, the stringhalt is m i tested in a 
severe form, and extreme pain is manifested. Except 
for the rheumatic form, there is no treatment that will 
benefit the patient. In that case, treat for rheumatism ; 
•or when first noticed, give strychnia in full doses for a 
few months. 



ARTHRITIS, SYNOVITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE JOINTS. 

This may be due to sprains of the ligaments extend- 
ing into the joint, and adjoining the synovial mem- 
brane ; to concussion of the bones extending to the 
joint, to wounds admitting air into the joint; to rheu- 
matism, to scrofula, to calcareous deposits in the joints, 
etc. From whatever cause, the whole joint becomes 
involved and. the symptoms have such a close similarity 
that they may be considered alike. 

Symptoms: — The joint will be swollen and of a doughy 
consistency. There will be lameness with more or less 
fever, according to the severity of the attack. If the 
joint is moved, the patient will exhibit excruciating 
pain. Hometimes the animal will hold the foot clear of 
the grtmnd, in a fixed position. Often from pain the 
patient will break out in a sweat, the fever running 
high and the pulse being quick and wiry. The tissues 
surrounding the joint become greatly swollen, with in- 
•creased heat and tenderness of the parts. 

Treatment : — Place the jjatient in slings and give a 
pliysic to open up the bowels. Then apply hot fomen- 
tations to the joint frequently, with flannel bandages, 
and the following everv three or four hours : 



282 DISEASES OE THE HORSE. 

Sulphuric Ether two ounces. 

Laudanum two ounces. 

Chloroform one ounce. 

Spirits Turpentine three ounces. Mix. 

If this does not quiet tlie pain and the swelling; is 
obstinate, apply a blister — such as for open joints, and 
administer three times a day half-ounce doses of fluid 
extract buchu and juniper, with acetate of potassium. 



RICKETS. 

This is not an inflammatory disease, but consists of a 
softening of the bony structures. It is most frequently 
seen in young animals, those from a few days to a few 
months old. The real trouble, is a lack in the bones of 
such inorganic material as the phosphate and carbonate 
of calcium. Whenever the bones become deficient in 
these materials, they are cartilaginous in texture and 
easily bent ; in this way occurs the deformity of rickets. 
The causes are mal-nutrition, or a deficiency of the ele- 
ments necessary to build up the already deficient bony 
structure. Although hereditary in its character, it may 
be developed by not allowing the colt to suck the mare 
at will only permitting it, perhaps, to suck three times 
a day when the mare, hot and feverish, returns from 
work. Such treatment will cause irregularities of the 
bowels, the milk passing through them in a half-digested 
curd-like mass, white in color and very sour to the smell. 
This will cause great depletion, and rickets is the 
result. 

Treatment : — Feed regularly on good, nutritious diet, 
change the pasture, bandage the legs to keep them 
straight, give small doses of phosphate of lime ; keep in 
a dry, sunshiny, airy place ; give cod-liver oil and, to 
check the scouring, four to six ounces of castor oil. 



TEETH. 



HOW TO TELL THE AGE OF HORSES BY THEIR TEETH. 



Persons should familiarize themselves as much as possible,, 
with the various shapes and changes which the teeth of horses- 
undergo, from colthood to extreme age, so that they may not be 
deceived when purchasing a horse, which is quite frequently 
the case with those persons who have never given the teeth any 
attention. I have known cases where a fifteen and a sixteen year 
old horse had been sold for a seven and an eight year old, and 
the deception or falsehood was accepted by the pnrchaser, as he 
was himself unable to tell anything about their ages. I shall 
here endeavor to explain as nearly as possible, the various 
changes that take place, from foaling time to twenty years of 
age, so that the purchaser of a horse can determine very closely, 
the age of the animal he desires to buy, and not be too badly 




TEETH OF A FOAL. 

deceived by the seller. When the colt is foaled, it frequently 
has four front teeth or nippers, two above and two below. If 
these are not present at foaling time, they make their appearance 
within len days afterwards. In the course of five or six weeks, 
four more incisor front teeth, make their appearance alongside 
of the first four; these are called the middle teeth. Then a lapse 

(28.3) 



284 



DISEASES OF THE HOKSE. 



of six or seven months takes place before the last four incisors 
make their appearance, and they are designated as corner teeth. 




TEETH AT ONE YEAR OLD. 

It is then possessed with twelve incisors, six above and six be- 
low, which is considered a full set of front teeth. After this. 




TEETH AT TWO YEARS OLD. 

the only distinguishing mark to be observed, is that the wearing 
surfaces become somewhat smoother every few months, until 




TEETH AT THREE YEARS OLD. 



the colt is|two and one-half to three years old; at this age the 
four central incisors or colt teeth are shed and four permanent 



TEETH. 



285 



incisors are or horse teeth, are coming through the gums, to 
occupy their place, and in the course of a few weeks, they will 
have attained sufficient growth, to be of service while eating. 
At from three and a half to four years, four more colt incisors 




TEETH AT FOUR Y^^ARS OLD. 



give way, and their place is taken by the same number of perma- 
nent incisors, or horse teeth. The front or nipper teeth, now 
commence to show wear on the outer edge. At from four and a 
half to five years, the colt teeth have all gone and four more 




TEETH AT FIVE YEARS OLD. 



permanent or horse teeth, have taken their places. The nippers 
now show wear on both outer and inner edges, and the middle 
teeth yhow wear on the outer edges. The horse is now said'to 
have a full mouth or a complete set of permanent teeth. I have 



•286 



DISEASES OF THE HOKSE. 



not said anything about the back or molar teeth, for the simple 
reason that they are seldom examined with reference to varia- 
tion, in order to ascertain the age of the animal. The front or 




LOWER JAW AT SIX YEARS. 

incisor teeth, are considered the indicators, and to them I will 
confine myself. At six years of age, the nipper teeth in the 




LOWER JAW AT SEVEN YEARS. 

lower jaw have worn down, until the large cavity or mark in the 
center of the teeth, is nearly gone, and the inner edge of the 
corner teeth, is in full wearing, unless it should be what is 



TEETH. 



287 



called a shell tooth, then it is not considered to have au inner 
edfie. At seven years, the nippers and middle teeth in the 
lower jaw, are worn quite smooth; the cavity or mark in the 




LOWER JAW AT EIGHT YEARS. 



center of these teeth has disappeared, except in certain cases, 
when a slight trace of it is left. The corner teeth in the lower 




UPPER TEETH AT NINE YEARS. 

jaw, at eight years of age. lose the cavity in the center, through 
wear, although a slight trace of it may yet be seen. All the 
incisor teeth in the lower jaw, now present a well worn, or 



288 



DISEASES OP THE HORSE 



Bmootb appearance. At nine years, the mark or cavity in the 
nippers of the upper jaw disappears, and the wearing surface of 
these two teeth, becomes quite smooth, but the marks inthe 




UPPER JAW AT TEN YEARS. 

balance of the upper teeth, are plainly visible. At ten years 
of age, the middle teeth of the upper jaw, lose their mark, and 




UPPER JAW AT ELEVEN YEARS. 

they become smooth through wear. At eleven years of age, 
the corner teeth in the upper jaw, lose their mark, and the 
wearing surface of all of the upper incisor teeth becomes smooth, 



TEETH. 



289 



and the cavity or marks obliterated — the teeth commencing to 
assume a little difference in shape. The gums are commencing 
to recede from the teeth, which gives them the appearance of 
being much longer. They are also a little deeper from their 




LOAVER JAW AT TWELVE YEARS. 

outer to their inner edge, in proportion to their breadth. At 
twelve years of age, the nippers of the lower jaw are almost 
round. They are about two-thirds the depth from the outer to 




LOWER JAW AT THIRTEEN YEARS 

the irner edge, that they are in breadth, and the middle and 
corner teeth, are assuming the same shape. Thirteen years of 
age, shows the middle as well as the nippers of the lower jaw, to 
be almost perfectly round; the distance from the outer to the 



290 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



inner edge, measuring about the same as the breadth. Fourteen 
years, presents all of the incisors of the lower jaw, as being 
nearly round, measuring about the same in depth that they do 
in breadth. When fifteen years old, the nippers of the "upper 




LOWER JAW AT FOURTEEN YEARS. 

jaw are nearly round, measuring about the same in depth that 
they do in the breadth. At sixteen years, the middle teeth of 
the upper jaw have become nearly round, the nippers measuring 




UPPER JAW AT FIFTEEN YEARS. 



a little more in depth than they do in breadth. Seventeen 
years of age, presents all of the incisors of the upper jaw, as 
being nearly round, the nippers and middle teeth being a trifle 
greater in depth than they are in breadth. At eighteen yeears, 



TEETH. 



291 



the nippers in the lower jaw have become triangular in shape, 




UPPER JAW AT SIXTEEN. 

being about one fifth greater in depth than they are in breadth. 




UPPER JAW AT SEVENTEEN YEARS. 

Nineteen years, presents the middle teeth of the lower jaw as 




LOWER JAW AT EIGHTEEN YEARS. 

being triangular in shape, increasing in depth and diminishing 



292 



DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



in breadth. At twenty, all of the incisors in the lower jaw have 
become triangular in shape, measuring about one third more in 







LOWER JAW AT NINETEEN YEARS. 

depth than they do in breadth, and as the animal grows older, 




LOWER JAW AT TWENTY YEARS. 

they increase in depth and diminish in breadth, or become very 
irregular. 



CATTLE DEPARTMENT. 



DISEASES OF CATTLE, 

THEIR 
CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT. 



SORE MOUTH, OR APTHA. 

Aptha consists of small vesicles or sores in the 
mouth, around the lips and cheeks and sometimes upon 
the tongue. They become ulcerated and are quite 
troublesome. 

Symptoms : — Sometimes there is considerable fever, 
but not always. There is usually dropping or quidding 
of the food. The mouth will feel hot with saliva drop- 
ping from the lips, and upon examination, the vesicles 
and ulcers will be revealed. 

Treatment : — Give a mild physic, say a quart of raw 
linseed oil and apply one of the following applicationa : 

Chloride Zinc two drachms. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Or, 

Powd. Alum . . two ounces. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Or rub powdered alum into the sores, which will 
often work the best. 



GLOSSITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE TONGUE. 

This disease is quite often met with among cattle, 
and is either supeficial or deep-seated in character. 
When of a superficial nature, caused by the administra,- 

(295) 



296 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



tion of medicines not thoroughly diluted or by drinking 
lye or mineral acids, as cattle will do sometimes when 
thirsty, the inflammatory, action may follow to the 
stomach and produce death, but if confined to the 




GLOSSITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE TONGUE. 

tongue, no unfavorable results need be looked for; but 
when of a deep-seated character, it is very obstinate 
and with difficulty attended. It usually comes from di- 
rect injuries and deep-seated ulcers, and sometimes 
abscesses form spontaneously. 

Symptoms : — The tongue will be more or less swollen 
and of a deep red color. Sometimes swollen to such an 
extent that it will protrude from the mouth. There is 
great difficulty in swallowing, laborious breathing, 
saliva driveling from the mouth, tongue hot and th« 
pulse quickened. Sometimes a foetid smell will be no- 
ticed in the mouth. 

Treatment: — If of a superficial nature, mild solutions, 
such as, 

Powd. Alum one ounce. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Wash the mouth three times a day ; or, 



ULCERATED TONGUE. 297 

Vinegar six ounces. 

Honey four ounces. 

Chlorate of Potassium one ounce. Mix. 

Apply three times a day. Feed soft food as, bran 
mash, etc. If deep-seated in character, the treatment 
will be more severe. Give physic, 

Epsom Salts sixteen ounces. 

Powd. Jamaica Ginger. ..two drachms. Mix. 
Give at one dose in half gallon of water. Keep 
chlorate of potassium in drinking water continuously. 
Feed soft food, allowing plenty of water. If any for- 
eign substance is lodged in the tongue, remove it, or if 
an abscess forms, open it and allow the matter to 
escape. If from deep-seated ulcers, take, 

Chlorate of Zinc two drachms. 

Water four ounces. Mix. 

Apply to the ulcers with a feather or small brush, 
every three or four days until the ulcer looks healtliy, 
or pencil it well with lunar caustic. vSomtvimes scari- 
fying the tongue with the knife, will be attended with 
great benefit. Also give as a tonic. 

Sulphate of Iron two ounces. 

Powdered Gentian two ounces, 

Powdered Nux Vomica one ounce. 

Nitrate of Potassium 

one and one-half ounces. Mix. 

Make twelve powders. Give one powder morning 
and evening in a pint of water or beer. 



ULCERATED TONGUE. 

Ulcerations of the tongue, fauces and cheeks occur 
from inflammation excited by injuries, diseased teeth, 
lodged food, corn cobs or sticks between the teeth in tlie 



298 diseasp:s of cattle. 

mouth ; by trying, whilst the animal is choking, to force 
apples, potatoes, or other substances down the throat 
with a stick. 

Symptoms: — Constitutional disturbances will be no- 
ticed from the very first, as the animal experiences 
great difficulty in masticating and swallowing food. 
Emaciation will follow, attended by a rough, staring 
coat, sunken eyes and a dejected appearance generally. 
On examining the mouth, the cause will appear in the 
form of one or more ulcers on the back part of the 
tongue or fauces, having a ragged appearance and 
emitting a sour, disagreeable smell. 

Treatment : — Feed on soft, nutritious diet, as bran 
mash, chop feed, corn meal, green grass, etc. With a 
sponge or cloth fastened to a stick, apply to the ulcers 
the following, once a day: 

Sulphate of Zinc one drachm. 

Butter of Antimony one drachm. 

Alcohol eight ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Nitrate of Silver one-half drachm. 

Water eight ounce's. Mix. 

Or, 

Chloride of Zinc one drachm. 

Water ten ounces. Mix. 

Keej) in a cool place and allow plenty of cool drink- 
ing water. A cure will generally result. 



DIARRHOEA. 



Diarrhoea is observed in cattle as well as in all other 
animals, and its causes are many and various. Among 
them are eating irritating substances ; eating too large 
quantities of food ; eating to excess of sloppy bran or 
linseed meal ; changing from dry to green food ; the inju- 



DIARRHCEA, 299 

dicious or continued use of purgative medicines ; indi- 
gestion or disordered stomach. Diarrhoea in calves may 
be caused by giving very rich milk in large quantities, 
or by feeding sour milk; the latter curdles in the 
stomach, and passing on into the bowels in a half- 
digested state, acts as an irritant, producing what is 
known as the " white scours." Whilst diarrhoea is a 
disease, it is sometimes a boon to the animal, being 
nature's effort to cast off some deleterous matter that 
has impregnated the system. 

Symptoms: — The most prominent symptoms are a 
copious discharge, of a liquid consistency, from the 
bowels, accompanied by flatulence and continued strain- 
ing; sometimes a good appetite, but more frequently 
it is diminished ; cramping pains, staring coat ; and the 
animal will stand all drawn up ; if the patient be a calf 
whose diarrhoea is caused by sour milk the faeces will 
emit a sour odor ; the animal will lose flesh rapidly and 
have a dejected appearance generally. 

Treatment : — Too much cannot be said against the uee 
of astringent remedies at the commencement of diar- 
rhoea unless the cause be known to be the use of purga- 
tives, bran or linseed meal. The reason for this is that 
there is generally within the bowels some irritant which 
nature is trying to expel. Instead of giving remedies 
to prevent it, give half a pint or a pint of linseed or 
castor oil to aid in removing the offending object ; it 
will usually effect a cure. If not, you may then resort 
to astringents and give one of the following every four 
or five hours until a cure is effected : 

Tincture Catechu two ounces. 

Tincture Kino two ounces. 

Tincture Opium two ounces. 

Tincture Ginger two ounces. Mix. 



800 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

Give two ounces at a dose iu a little water as a 
drench ; or, 

Powdered Chalk one ounce. 

Powdered Catechu three drachms. 

Powdered Kino one drachm. 

Powdered Opium one-half drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose ; or, 

Prepared Chalk six dracnms. 

Powdered Opium one drachm. 

Tannic Acid one scruple. Mix. 

Give at one dose. If, after giving these remedies, 
the bowels become too much constipated, give a pint of 
raw linseed oil, or castor oil. Feed on dry food, give 
no grain and limit the amount of drinking water to half 
gallon at each drink. For calves give one-fourth tik© 
amount prescribed above. 



ACUTE DYSENTERY. 



This disease consists in an inflammation of the 
mucous membrane of the bowels, with ulceration and 
hemorrhage, and is sometimes called bloody flux. It is 
very often the sequel to diarrhoea and has similar 
causes. The symptoms, too, are about the same, only 
of a more aggravated form. There is great constitu- 
tional disturbance with a liquid or watery discharge, 
intermingled with blood, from the bowels.' The animal 
appears very dull, with clammy mouth, flurred tongue, 
sunken eyes, discharging a thin, watery or mattery dis- 
charge ; rapid, small and wiry pulse, dry, harsh, staring 
coat, great emaciation, with a hide-bound appearance. 
The animal grunts, grinds its teeth and stands with its 
back arched. Pain in the bowels is manifested by 
uneasiness and frequent straining ; the straining is some- 



ACUTE DYSENTERY. 



801 



times so hard, that it forces the bowel out, when it pre- 
sents a red and inflamed appearance. Sometimes, but 
not always, there is considerable bloating on the left 




ACU1E DYSENTERY. 

side. The horns, limbs and ears are cold. If a cow she 
loses her milk. Loss of appetit-e is noticed, with sus- 
pended rumination and increased desire for water. 

Treatment : — Place the animal in a good, comfortable 
place, well bedded, and blanket well. Feed choice. 



S02 BISEASBS OF OATTLB. 

clean, nutritioug food and all©w drinking water 
sparingly. Give the following : 

Oastor or Linseed Oil one quart. 

Powdered Opium one drachm. 

Powdered Catechu one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose, and afterwards give every four or 
five hours till the bowels stop running off and th© 
patient stops straining, of the following: 

Calomel one-half drachm. 

Powdered Opium two scruples. 

Powdered Kino one drachm. Mix. 

Give in a pint of linseed tea; or, 

Powdered Opium two scruples. 

Prepared Chalk five drachms. 

Powdered Catechu four drachms. 

Ginger two drachms. Mix. 

Give in a quart of linseed gruel ; or, 

Muriate of Morphia ten grains. 

Powdered Camphor one drachm. 

Prepared Chalk six drachms. 

Whites of three hard-boiled eggs Mix. 

Give in a pint of linseed or oatmeal gruel ; or, 

Tincture Opium one ounce. 

Tincture Catechu one-half ounce. 

Tincture Kino one-half ounce. 

Pure Carbolic Acid ..... . .thirty drops. 

Sweet Spirits of Nitre 

one and one-half ounces. Mix. 

Give in a pint of linseed gruel. 

Sometimes acute dysentery subsides and takes a 
chronic form, when the length of time for recovery will 
be prolonged. Select one or two of the foregoing pre- 
scriptions containing chalk, and continue its use twice 
daily ; the results will be very satisfactory. But, if the 



WHITE SCOURS IN CALVES. 303 

chronic form is the result of old age and general de- 
bility, the bowels become so weakened that any treat- 
ment is of little avail and death closes the scene. 



WHITE SCOURS IN CALVES. 

This disease is caused by an acid condition of the 
stomach. Calves that are not allowed to nurse tlieir 
mothers and especially the first milk after calving 
(called colostrum) which acts as a mild physic and pre- 
pares the stomach and bowels for the reception and 
proper digestion of food, are susceptible to white scours. 
When calves are not allowed the first milk of the 
mother, they become constipated, which condition is 
followed by an acid secretion from the lining mem- 
branes of the stomach and bowels, and when milk is 
swallowed it soon curdles ; the cheesy material acts as 
an irritant and the whey passes off in the form of white, 
half-fluid manure, which is properly termed white 
scours. 

Treatment : — The first object is to counteract the acid 
secretion and restore the bowels to a natural condition. 
This is best accomplished by giving a mild physic to 
remove offending agents, as, 

Linseed Oil one pint. 

Laudanum one ounce. 

Brandy, two ounces. Mix. 

Give two ounces three times a day until the bowels 
act in a somewhat natural manner. The food should 
receiise immediate attention. Give milk and liuFeed 
gruel, half and half, until the bowels are in a condition 
to receive milk alone. Or, you can constantly diminish 
the gruel and add more milk daily, until the desired re- 
sults are accomplished. Sometimes white scours as- 



804 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



sumes a chronic form, when more active astringents are 
called for, and when such is the case, use the following; 

Prepared Chalk two ounces. 

Powdered Catechu one ounce. 

Powdered Ginger four drachms. 

Powdered Opium one draclim. 

Peppermint Water one pint. Mix. 

Give one ounce three times a day. 



TYMPANITIS, HOVEN OR BLOATING. 

This is a common disease, or rather accident, among 
cattle and has been pretty generally observed by almost 
every person who is in the habit of keeping or handling 
them. The complaint is usually observed in cattle 
which are greedy eaters and have just been turned out 




ACUTE TYMPANITIS, OR BhOATiXG. 

to feed on red clover pasture of rank growth and cov- 
ered with moisture or dew. The greedy animal eats 
more than the stomach can handle and force up for 
mastication.' In the rumen, or tirst stomach, which is 
merely a receptacle for food, a fermentation takes 



TYMPANITLS, llOVEN OR BLOATING. 805 

place, gases are formed and the paunch is distended to 
an enormous size and is noticed on the left side. If relief 
is not speedily obtained, rnpture of the stomach or bow- 
els takes place and death ensues. Cattle that have been 
fed on dry food, and are turned upon green pasture that 
is wet from rain or dew, are most liable to become af- 
fected. Great care should therefore be exercised, in 
not allowing the cattle to eat too much such grass, before 
being removed to a place of confinement, where they 
may ruminate or "chew the cud." Cattle fed on frozen 
turnips, carrots or other roots, are subject to tympan- 
itis. So, also, cattle which are choking, or have any 
foreign substance within the cesopliagus, are liable to 
bloat; but on removal of the obstruction, the bloating 
disappears. I have seen a case where the cow had at- 
tempted premature birth. The calf was dead and par- 
tially decayed within the womb; rumination was sus- 
pended, appetite lost, rongh coat, dejected appearance 
generally. Bloating was a prominent symptom. An 
examination by the vagina revealed the cause. 

Symptoms: — The symptoms are developed very rap- 
idly. After being turned on clover or wet grass, 
a swelling appears on the left side and gradually in- 
creases in severity. The bloating becomes greater, 
breathing is most difficult and the patient moans and 
grunts; the eyes become blood-shot, saliva drivels from 
the mouth, and the back is arched. The animal seems 
riveted to the spot on which it stands, or staggers 
around and falls to rise no more. 

Treatment: — If the case is not too far advanced, irive 
the following at one dose : 

Aqua Ammonia one ounce. 

Tincture of Ginger two ounces. 

Tincture of Anise one ounce. 

Water one quart. Mix. 



806 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

Or give the ammonia and water together, omitting 
the other drugs. Afterwards place a large gag in the 
mouth to keep it wide open and fasten it there by ropea 
tied around the horns or neck; this will permit the free 
outlet of eructations of gas from the stomach. If the 
symptoms increase in severity, it is best to tap the 
stomach with a trocar and canula, whicli is done aa 
follows : Fasten the animal so that it cannot get away, 
then shove the beast against the stall or fence. Then, 
standing on the left, somewhat in front to prevent be- 
ing kicked, measure about half way l^etween the last 
rib and hip bone, and about six inches from the lumbar 
vertebrae. Now plunge the instrument inward and 
downward and withdraw the trocar leaving the canula, 
through which the gas will come rushing out. The 
canula may be fastened there, and, if necessary, kept in 
position for twenty-four hours. The trocar and canula 
should be eight or nine inches in length and three- 
eighths of an inch in diameter. If you have no instru- 
ment, use an ordinary jack-knife, as there is very little 
danger from such an operation. After discharging th e 
gas, to empty the stomach, give the following, 

Epsom Salts twelve ounces. 

Glauber Salts four ounces. 

Powdered Ginger four drachms. 

Water one gallon. Mix. 

Give immediately. Sometimes the hollow probang 
is introduced into the stomach, to allow the gas to 
escape ; but this is not very practical, as you cannot al- 
low it to remain in very long and the opening is liable to 
become plugged with food. After giving the pliysic you 
may give some brandy, whirkey or ale, to tone up (he 
stomach. 



PLEULIO-PNEUMONIA CONTAGIOSA. 307 

PLEURO-PNEUMONIA CONTAGIOSA. 

For forty years, or so, this disease has been noticed 
in different parts of the eastern states, but through pre- 
cautionary measures, it has not become at all widely 
spread in the rest of the country — for which stock own- 
ers may be deeply thankful. The means now employed 
to prevent a spread of the disease by quarantining 
imported cattle for a period of three months will, no 
doubt, lessen, if not completely check, the ravages of 
this malady. Floatins; rumors sometimes declare the 
existence of contagious pleuro-pneumonia in some 
of the western states; but upon the best authority I am 
informed upon thorough examination, both ante and 
post mortem, by qualified veterinary surgeons, such 
rumors fail to establish themselves. At the same time 
considerable alarm may exist. Pleuro-pneumonia epi- 
zootica is as contagious among cattle as smallpox is 
among men. Bedding, food, blankets, manure — in fact 
anything used around an animal afl'ected with pleuro- 
pneumonia — brought in contact with a healthy animal, 
is liable to communicate the disease. The period of 
incubation varies with ditferent animals. The disease 
may develop in a week or ten days and may not appear 
under twelve or lifteen weeks — though during this time 
there will appear some symptoms. There may be a 
slight, husky cough, pulse somewhat accelerated, with 
a raise in temperature to possibly 103° F. Yet the 
animal may thrive and lay on flesh and, if a milch cow, 
the flow of milk may not be diminished. After the dis- 
ease becomes further advanced, respiration is quick- 
ened, the temi^erature reaches 108° F., appetite ceases, 
rumination is suspended, the mouth is hot, there are 
chills "^"With more or less shivering, milk diminishes, 
bowels are constipated, urine is high-colored, breath 
■omewhat offensive, pulse accelerated to possibly one 



808 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

hundred or more per minute, coat staring, with yellow 
skin. The cough becomes more frequent and trouble- 
some, the nostrils are dilated, with a slight, offensively 
smelling discharge, there is great emaciation ; on apply- 
ing the ear to the windpipe a rushing sound of air is 
heard; at the base of the lungs a loud sound may be 
distinguished but still further back, on account of the 
inhltration or consolidation of the lung tissue, no sound 
at all or .only a wheezing sound can be heard. If the 
disease be confined to one side or to one lung only, on 
the opposite side the respiratory murmur is much louder, 
on account of the double work on that side. No treat- 
ment should be attempted, but the infected animals 
should be destroyed and their carcasses burned, as soon 
as the identity of the disease is established beyond 
doubt, in order to prevent the spread of the contagion. 



ALBUMINURIA, INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS, OR 
BRIGHT'S DISEASE. 

This disease is not very frequent, except as the re- 
sult of injury, when it sometimes occurs in a violent 
form. Still it may arise from bad feeding, from feed- 
ing poorly matured or marsh hay, which causes derange- 
ment of the digestive organs and irritation of the kid- 
neys through reflex action of the brain. This form is 
seldom observed among the lower animals. But wiien 
an injury is received upon the brain or spinal cord, 
albuminuria is frequently the result. 

Symptoms : — Generally the first symptoms observed 
are the animal's standing with its legs gathered under 
it, and the back arched; or the legs will be somewhat 
stretched out, the hind legs wide apart, and the back 
sunken or straiglit. The animal is loath to move, ap- 
pears stitr, and if compelled to move, does so with a 



EPIZOOTIC APHTHA, ETC. 309 

painful, straddling motion. The bowels are usually con- 
stipated and the breathing accelerated. The urine is 
thick and dark colored, and sometimes passed with diffi- 
culty ; if tested for albumen, it will be found in varying 
amounts. The attack is usually very sudden, and, if not 
speedily relieved, the patient usually dies from blood 
poisoning. 

Treatment: — If there is inability to void urine, it 
should be drawn away. In the cow this is easily done 
with a straight catlieter ; but in the ox, owing to the 
curvature in the penis, it can only be done by making 
an incision into the urethra below the anus, through 
which pass the female catheter. Then immediately 
give a strong physic to unload the bowels and keep their 
contents in a liquid state to relieve the kidneys of a 
share of their work. Give the following, 

Epsom Salts sixteen ounces. 

Sulphate of Soda twelve ounces. 

Ginger one ounce. 

Warm Water. one and one-half gallons. Mix. 
Keep hot cloths across the loins, and mustard embro- 
cations may be applied across the loins to advantage. 
Keep in a comfortable place, and feed on soft, nutri- 
tions diet, as, bran mash, scalded chop feed, linseed 
gruel, etc. After the bowels have been relieved, give 
the following : 

Powdered Opium one ounce. 

Calomel four drachms. Mix. 

Make eight powders. Give one powder morning 
an 1 evening, in thick linseed gruel. 



EPIZOOTIC APHTHA, OR FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE. 

It is proper to state here, that a simple form of 
a])htha appears in young animals during dentition, 
when small vesicles or blisters break out around tha 



810 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

mouth, on the tongue, and sometimes around the feet. 
But this is in no way contagious and calls for little or 
no treatment except the application of some healing 
lotion. But epizootic aphtha is a different disease and 
highly contagious, often fatal; and like smallpox and 
measles in man, is seldom seen twice in the same indi- 
vidual. It is purely an eruptive fever and destined to 
run a certain course, until a favorable termination may 
be reached, despite all treatment. 

Symptoms: — The symptoms vary in intensity accord- 
ing to the condition, temperament and habits of the 
animal. It develops rapidly from the commencement 
and is generally ushered in by a chill which is succeeded 
by a staring coat, dry cough, quick, hard pulse, and a 
temperature ranging from 103° F. to 106° F., the appe- 
tite is poor and sometimes entirely suspended. Thick, 
ropy saliva drivels from the mouth, and, as the vesicles 
rupture, it becomes mixed with blood. Upon examining 
the mouth, vesicles varying in size will be seen on the 
tongue, lips and cheeks. The feet are not always 
attacked, but generally are. If so, there will be swell- 
ing around the coronets covered with small blisters, also 
email blisters between the coronets. The swelling 
presses the toes apart and, on standing or walking, 
causes great pain. The blisters or vesicles soon burst, 
discharge their contents and, in the majority of cases, 
scab over. Sometimes the teats and udders of cows 
become affected, break out, swell, and prove a great 
Bource of irritation. 

Treatment: — Give a mild laxative, as, 

Sulphate of Soda ten ounces. 

Ginger one-half ounce. 

Fcenugreek one-half ounce. Mix. 

Give in a quart of warm beer. The mouth should 
be washed twice or thrice daily with the following : 



CANCKKOUS TLCERS. 8]1( 

Chlorate of Potassium one ounce. 

Powdered Alum one ounce. 

V/ater one quart. Mix. 

If matter forms around the feet, apply tlie following 
tv.ice daily : 

Iodoform one ounce. 

Vaseline two ounces. Mix. 

Grease the parts; or use, 

Salicylic Acid one-half ounce. 

Iodoform one ounce. 

Vaseline two ounces. Mix. 

Grease the parts thrice daily. If the udder is swelled 
and painful grease with, 

Gum Camphor one ounce. 

Extract of Belladonna one ounce. 

Vaseline iive ounces. Mix. 

Use twice daily. If the appetite fails or the animal 
cannot eat, drench with gruel two or three times a day, 
into \\ hicli may be mixed a quart of beer. 

CANCEROUS ULCBRS. 

When the veterinary surgeon-s attention is called to 
these cases, he can do little more tlian to advise concern- 



VWl^ 




LUMP JAW. 

ing the best mode of destroying the animal. These 
ulcers generally appear as small, hard nodules, situated 
upon either the upper or lower jaw, principally the lat^ 



JU2 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



ter. Usually they are at first -»^iovable, the skin playing 
over them with perfect ease/ As they gradually de- 
velop in size, they become adherent to the bone and 
may continue to grow for months before breaking. 
When one breaks, it discharges either a thin liquid, or 




TUMOR REMOVED. 



pus, and presents an ugly, ragged appearance, of a 
fibrous nature and sometimes bleeds profusely. It may 
partially heal up, then it will swell up and discharge, 
and lumps of tissue will slough away. Gradually be- 
coming worse, it eventually affects the teeth, causing 




LU.MP JAW. 



them to fall out and esfablisliing an opening into the 
mouth, throuuh which the food will drop out. v- There is 
no special treatment save to fatten the animal for the 
but^-.her — that is when the swelling is first noticed. 



H.EiMATlKKA, OR BLOODY URINE. 



313 



After it has broken out and discharged for some time, 
the flesh ought not to be used. Still, destroying the 
animal is a humane act. 



HAEMATUREA, OR BLOODY URINE. 

This disease is seen amongst all breeds of cattle and 
ia caused by injuries over the back and loins ; by cattle 
jumping upon each other, by eating herbs which cause 




TRAUMATIC HAEMATUREA. 

irritation of the kidneys, by the administration of pain- 
ful diuretics; from stones in the bladder, rupture of 
email blood vessels in the kidneys, or vagina. 

Symptoms: — The symptoms develop very rapidly. 
The animal appears weak, scarcely able to rise, and 
when standing the back is arched ; there is strain- 
ing, the animal voids small quantities of urine 
mixed with blood globules and albumen; pulse 
quick, small and wiry; appetite and rumination partly 
suspended, legs and horns are alternately hot and cold, 
mouth liot, I)o\vels constipated, flow of milk decreased; 
on applying i)ressure along the back, the animal evinces 
pain ; if compelled to walk, it moves with a straddling 
gait. 



814 • DiSKAPKS OF cattlp:, 

Treaiment: — Apply hot fomentations across the loins 
and give the following : 

Epsom Salts sixteen ounces. 

Sulphate of Soda eight ounces. 

Ground Ginger one-half ounce. 

Gentian one-half ounce. Mix. 

Give in a gallon of water at one dose ; to be fol- 
lowed with tonics, as, 

Tincture Per-Chloride of Iron 

one ounce. 

Tincture Cinchona four ounces. 

Tincture Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Tincture Opium four ounces. 

Infusion of Quassia five ounces. Mix. 

Give two ounces, three times a day. Feed on a soft 
nutritious diet and the drinking water should be ren- 
dered mucilaginous by linseed. 



PHRENITIS, INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN. 

Intiammation of the brain usually results from in- 
juries to the head, or as the sequel of fevers caused by 
eating buckeyes ; also from indigestion, from exposure to 
the liot sun, from extensive inflammation of the ear, etc. 

Symptoms: — Sometimes an animal suffering from 
inflammation of the brain will appear stupid, pressing 
its head for a considerable time against a wall, fence or 
some stationary object, and occasionally running about 
wildly as if it were both drunk and blind. Others ap- 
pear as though seized with a fit of madness and act 
fiercely; the eyes are inflamed and staring — constantly 
watching. The animal in rushing about, will fall do\\ n. 
in almost any position. The breathing will be slow., 
and the pulse, strong and full at first, will gradually de- 



GOKORRHOEA, OR CLAP. 81& 

cline with throbbing of the temporal arteries. The dis- 
ease generally occurs during the hot months. 
Treatment : — Give a brisk physic : 

Epsom Salts twenty-four ounces. 

Ginger six drachms. Mix. 

Put in a gallon of warm water and give at one dose. 
Bleed from the jugular vein, while the pulse is full, 
from one to two gallons. Apply ice-cold water to the 
head constantly. If the limbs are cold, apply friction 
or some stimulating liniment and bandage, and give, 

Bromide of Potassium six ounces. 

Sulphate of Soda twelve ounces. Mix. 

Make twelve powders. Give one powder every two 
or three hours in a pint of water, and as convalescence 
is taking place, apply a good blister on the head, back 
of the horns. 



GONORRHOEA, OR CLAP. 

This disease is not very frequently met with in 
veterinary practice, but sometimes occurs and is a 
source of considerable annoyance to both practitioner 
and patient. Bulls and cows suffer considerably in 
passing water. The animal strains frequently and only 
a small quantity of urine at a time is passed; the ani- 
mal occasionally stamps its feet and lashes its tail from 
side to side; the bowels are constipated; if a bull, a 
swelling appears around the sheath; a discharge of mat- 
ter, at first light in color and then assuming a thick white 
or yellowish white color, is seen dropping away ; some- 
times the penis swells up and becomes fiery red in color. 
Treatment: — As soon as noticed give a brisk physic: 

Epsom Salts sixteen ounces. 

Sulphate of Soda six ounces. 

Ginger seven drachms. Mix. 



316 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

Give in a gallon of warm water. Bathe the parts 
well with hot water and into the affected portions in- 
ject hot water frequently, or inject the following : 

Iodoform two drachms. 

Listerine six ounces. 

Water ten ounces. Mix. 

Use three times a day ; or, 

Sulphate of Copper one ounce. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Or, 

Calomel two drachms. 

Lime Water one pint. Mix. 

Inject twice daily and give the following : 

Balsam Copaiba two ounces. 

Tincture Cubebs two ounces. 

Spirits, of Camphor two ounces. 

Tincture Kino two ounces. 

Morphia forty grains. Mix. 

Give tablespoonful three times a day. If cliancrei 
appear, they should be touched with lunar caustic and 
afterward covered with iodoform or calomel twice 
daily. Cattle thus affected should not be bred until a 
complete cure is effected, as it is communicable to other 
animals. Great care should be used in thoroughly 
cleansing the hands, as the discharge is very poisonous. 



CATARRH, OR COLD. 



This is the term used to denote an inflamed condi- 
tion of the lining membrane of the nostrils, sinuses of 
the head and upper air passages ; it ma}^ extend to the 
eyes and throat. The causes are change of climate, 
sudden changes of weather, bad ventilation, deficient 



C ATA Kit H, OR COLD. 817 

drainage, being turned from a warm stable out into a 
cold storm, etc. 

Symptoms: — The lining membrane of the nostrils is 
at lirst reddened and dry, soon becoming moist with a 
thin, watery discharge. The eye-lids become swollen 
and red and discharge a watery secretion, soon assuming 
a mattery appearance. The forehead and butts of the 



^Ja<* 




CATARRH, OR COLD. 

horns are very hot. The animal snuffles and sneezes 
and sometimes coughs. The breathing is somewhat 
difficult. The animal occasionally shivers. Appetite 
and rumination are partly suspended. The urine is 
high-colored. Coat is rough and staring. Sometimes a 
light diarrhcpa is present and later on a thick, viscid 
discharge from the nostrils. 

Treatment: — Give as a mild laxative — 

Epsom Salts twelve ounces. 

Ginger one-half ounce. 

Gentian one-half ounce. Mix. 

Give in a half gallon of warm water. Keep the 
patient in a comfortable jjlace, blanket Avell and feed 
on liot mashes. Give one of the following powders 
three times a dav : 



«18 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



Chlorate of Potassium one ounce. 

Nitrate of Potassium one ounce. 

Bicarbonate of kSoda one ounce. Mix. 

Make eight powders. If the discharge becomes 
stopped before a favoralile termination is readied, steam 
the nostrils with scalded bran or oats and add a little 
vinegar to the hot water. 



CHOKING. 

This IS a common accident among cattle that are fed 
on such roots as turnips, carrots, potatoes, beets, etc., 
■etc. In greedy eaters it is also caused whilst eating 
grain or chaff; in the hurry to eat, the food is not thor- 
•oughly mixed with saliva, and being swalloAved about 







INJURIES TO THE GULLET FROM USING BROOM STICKS 
AND WHIP STALKS WHILE CHOKING. 

half dry, it frequently becomes lodged in the oesophagus. 
Choking also occurs from leather, clothing, etc., of 
which cattle frequently attempt to eat. 

Symptoms: — If the obstruction is high up in the 
.throat or in the pharynx, the animal will slaver consid- 



CHOKING. 



319 



erably — the saliva running profusely from the mouth. 
There will be dilticult breathing and much uneasiness. 




THE MAXNER OF USING THE PK0B;\N<1 IX (HOKI>;(i. 

The head will be held low down \vi{]) the nose straight 
out ; sometimes attempts at coughing are made. The 



U20 i)lSEASE8 OF CATTLE. 

eyes are staring and blood shot. If the obstrnction is 
lower down the neck or within the chest, the symptoms 
are not so severe. The breathing may be but little 
altered and the slavering much less and prol^ably 
absent. If the animal attempts to drink and the obstruc^- 
tion is large, the water will be ejected through the 
mouth and nostrils ; but if the obstruction is small, it 
may pass by it and go to the stomach. Bloating is a 
prominent symptom — the left side will sometimes be 
greatly distended. 

Treatment : — If the obstruction is within the pharynx 
place a gag in the mouth and remove it with the hand 
or with a pair of forceps. If you fail to witlidraw it, 
give a half pint of sweet oil or melted lard ; administer 
carefully, and the obstruction may pass downward or be 
expelled in an attempt to cough. Should this fail or 
should the animal be in great distress, pass the pro- 
hang immediately. This should be done as follows: 
Place gag in the mouth and have an assistant hold 
it; then grease the probang and pass it slowly down the 
throat. When you come to the obstruction, press 
heavily but slowly, and when it starts force it on into 
the stomach. If the obstruction is low down or within 
the chest, give six or eight ounces of sweet oil or melted 
lard, also a quart or two of water, and it will frequently 
pass on. If it does not, pass the probang, but do not 
attempt to force it doAvn with sticks or whip-stalks as 
you are liable to produce great injury, by rupturing the 
oesophagus. When this occurs and inflammation sets 
in, apply hot water to the side of the neck, and give 
internally — 

Powdered Alum one-half ounce. 

Powdered Opium three drachms. 

Warm Water one pint. Mix. 



OHKONIC INDIGESTION. 



321 



Give wineglassful three times a day. Sometimes it 
is advisable to apply a blister along the side of the 
neck. The followinij; will answer very well : 

A(iua Ammonia two ounces. 

Spirits Turpentine two ounces, 

Linseed Oil four ounces. Mix. 

Apply two or three times a day, rubbing it thor- 
oughly. Feed on soft food, allow drinking water at 
pleasure and fatten for the butcher, as there will always 
be more or less trouble. 



CHRONIC INDIGESTION. 



This is a disease of the fourth stomach and is caused 
by irregular feeding, bad ventilation, feeding innutri- 
tions and badly-cured fodder, exposure to cold and rain, 
feeding on marsh grasses, etc. 




CHRONIC INDIGESTION. 

Symptoms: — At first the animal will have a whim- 
sical appetite and eat irregularly ; later on, they will 
sometimes be discovered eating dirt, filth, straw, 
manure, etc. -^The skin becomes harsh and dry, with a. 
staring coat. The dung will be passed in small lumps 



822 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



which will be hard and dry and covered with mucous. 
The loss of llesh will be rapid and the creature at the 
flanks will look as thin as a sunfish. The blood beconiea 
depleted, with pallor of the mucous membranes; and if 




DROPPING OF THE CUD, OR INDIGESTION. 

the disease is allowed to progress, diarrhoea will super- 
vene and death will result. But, if attended to in time, 
a favorable termination may be looked for. 

Treatment: — Put the animal in a comfortable place 
and give a mild laxative. 

Epsom Salts twelve ounces. 

Powdered Ginger one-half ounce. 

Powdered Gentian. . . . one-half'ounce. 

Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia 

two ounces. 

Water one ([uart. Mix. 

Give at one dose, and afterwards give — 

Powdered Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Powdered Jamaica Ginger. two ounces. 

Powdered Gentian four ounces. 

Powdered Foenugreek two ounces. Mix. 



COLIC. 323 

Give desertspooiiful two or three times a day in soft 
food. Feed on soft, nutritious food in small quantities, 
often repeated ; or feed roots, as turnips, carrots, beets, 
rtc, witli a little linseed meal occasionally. Give 
l)lenty of fresh drinkiny; water, with a teaspoonful of 
soda, three times a day. 



COLIC. 

This disease is seldom seen in cattle and when it 
occurs, the animal is not very violently attacked. Com- 
pared with the same disease in the horse, tlie symptoms 
are very mild. The animal will appear a little uneasy, 
stamp with its hind feet, twist its tail around from side 
to side, and possibly lie down and remain quiet; some- 
times it will turn its head around to its side. The 
breathing and pulse remain about normal. 

Treatment : — Administer a physic; the following will 
answer very well : 

Epsom Salts sixteen ounces. 

Powdered Ginger one ounce. 

Powdered Gentian. . . . one-half ounce. 

Warm Beer one quart. 

Warm Water one quart. Mix. 

Give at one dose. Bathe the lower part of the abdo- 
men and allow the animal to rest. If it still appears 
uneasy give the following; 

Tincture Opium two ounces. 

Tincture Ginger one ounce. 

Tincture Capsicum .... one-half ounce. 

Whisky one-half pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose, and, if the pains still continue, 
repeat in two hours. 



324 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



ENTERITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 

Among cattle this disease is not very frequent, but 
when it does occur it is usually very fatal. The causes 
are obstruction of the bowels, feeding on musty hay, 
drinking ice-cold water, administration of powerful, 
irritating medicines, change of food, etc. 

Symptoms: — The animal will be seized with colicky 
pains; will strike at the abdomen with the hind feet; 
there is suspension of appetite and rumination; pulse, 
at first full and hard, gradually growing quick, small 




E>,TEIMTI8, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 

and wiry; the animal lies down and rises up frequently; 
pain is constant : there is moaning; nose hot and dry; 
mucous membrane very red ; anxious expression of 
countenance. 

Treatment: — Place the animal in a comfortable stall, 
Avell bedded. If the disease is caused by obstruction of 
the bow^els give a mild laxative — as a pint and a half of 
sweet oil, or a pound of sulphate of soda in half a gal- 
lon of water. Follow up with drachm doses of pow- 
dered opium, to relieve the pain, or twenty-drop doses 
of liuid extract aconite, every thirty minutes until 



AFFECTIONS OF THE KETICULUM, ETC. 825 

relief is obtained. Apply to the abdomen blankets 
wrung out of hot water and rub mustard on the abdo- 
men and legs. Blanket well and feed on soft bran 
mashes for a few days, to relax the bowels. Avoid giv- 
ing brisk purgatives as evil results are liable to follow 
their use. 



AFFECTIONS OF THE RETICULUM, OR SECOND STOMACH. 

The reticulum, or second stomach, of cattle is some- 
times the seat of trouble. It is this stomach which pre- 
sents a honeycombed appearance. The usual troul^le 
here is the accumulation of foreign bodies — such aa 
pins, nails, shoe soles, pieces of tin, wire, etc. — which 
cows are liable to pick up. Many of these articles find 
a resting place in the rumen, or first stomach, but some 
pass on into the second stomach. Needles or nails some- 
times pierce the stomach and pass out to the ribs or on 
through the flesh and form an abscess, finally sloughing 
their way out of the animal's body. Others may pass 
forward through the diaphragm and pierce the heart, 
causing instant death. Others may pierce the walls of 
the stomach and excite an inflammation there; and 
they may be incased in tumors which have formed 
around them, there to remain for months, or even 
years ; or abscesses may form and break, assisting to 
destroy the life of the animal. It may not show any 
signs of illness and yet have within the stomach quite 
an accumulation of bits of iron, etc. But, if tumors 
and abscesses form, the animal will begin to lose flesh ; 
an intermittent diarrhoea will be noticed, with rough, 
staring coat and 3'ellow skin, full of dandruff, impaired 
appetite, sunken eyes, and aversion to movement. The 
treatment is unsatisfactory, as the offending object is 



;i"26 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

difficult to locate. All tliat can be clone is to feed on 
good, soft nutritious diet, and, if able to locate the 
irritating substance, operate and remove it. 



CONJUNCTIVITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. 

Inflammation of the eyes arises from various causes, 
such as blows from sticks or stones, being struck with a 
whip, dirt or chaff getting into the eye, foul stables, 
exposure to cold, etc. 

Symptoms: — Swelling of the eyelids, with water 
dropping from the inner corners ; eyelids closed most of 
the time, intolerance of light, impaired appetite, fever- 
ishness, conjunctiva swollen and red, with a whitish 
film covering the anterior portion of the eyeball ; if 
from a bruise, red streaks of blood will be seen radiat- 
ing from the seat of injury. 

Treatment : — If a foreign body is in the eye, remove 
it. This is much easier said than done, but the follow- 
ing solution will greatly assist in the operation : 

Cocaine ten grains. 

Soft Water one ounce. Mix. 

Place a few drops into the eye every thirty seconds, 
for two or three minutes; the eye becomes insensible 
and a thorough examination may be made. After the 
removal of any foreign substance, bathe the eye a few 
times with hot water, and the trouble is usually at an 
end. 

If from other causes, give a physic, 

Epsom Salts sixteen ounces. 

Ginger one-half ounce. 

Foenugreek one-half ounce. Mix. 

Give at one dose. Then bathe the eyes three or four 
times a day with hot water; feed on soft food and apply 
twice daily, one of tlie followiii";- lotions: 



INFLAMMATION OF THE LI\KK, OK HKPATITIS. 827 

Sulpliate of Zinc four grains. 

Sulphate of Atropia one ^rain. 

Soft Water two ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Powdered Oj)iuni one drachm. 

Hot Soft Water six ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Sulphate of Zinc four grains 

Water two ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Atropine one grain. 

Sulphate of Copper four grains. 

Water two ounces. Mix. 

Or, 

Sulphate Morphia one grain. 

Cocaine live grains. 

Water one ounce. Mix. 

Keep the patient in a clean, dark, airy stable; if at 
pasture, and only one eye is affected, bandage the af- 
fected eye. 



INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER, OR HEPATITIS. 

Inflammation of the liver is most frequently the re- 
Bult of high feeding in warm stables, without sufficient 
exercise to keep the circulation of the blood active. 
The bowels become constipated and the liver sutlers 
from an extra amount of blood sent to it, causing con- 
gestion and resulting in inflammation. 

Symptoms: — When the liver is attacked with conges- 
tion, the animal exhibits no distressing symptoms. 
But when inflammation sets in, the pulse is s ow and 
intermittent; respiration slow, the mucous n.e ibranes 
are pale or tinged with yellow; bowels constipated; the 



328 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



dung hard and black; urine high colored; coat staring, 
dry and hard to the touch ; horns, ears and legs cold.' 
On applying pressure to the right side, behind the last 
rib, the animal will evince pain and try to get away 




fatnthstg fit from inflammation of the liver. 
from you, and sometimes moan; you will also feel a 
hard tumor-like substance. 

Treatment: — At the outset give a brisk cathartic — 

Epsom kSalts twenty ounces. 

Aloes one ounce. 

Calomel two drachms. 

Ginger one ounce. Mix. 

Give in a gallon of warm w^ater at one dose. After 
the physic has operated, give morning and evening, for a 
week or ten days, in a pint of gruel, the following: 

Iodide of Potassium one drachm. 

Calomel twenty grains. 

Extract of Taraxacum. . .two drachms. 

Nitrate of Potassium two drachms. Mix. 

If the bowels become costive, give a physic. When 
convalescence is estnblisliod, great care in feeding 



DISLOCA'llON OF THE PATELLA, OR STIFLE JOINT. 



829 



ehoiild be observed. Give highly nutritious food, in 
limited amounts, and such as is easily digested, as, 
scalded bran mash, linseed meal, boiled barley, turnips 
and choice, clean hay. Sometimes much benefit is de- 
rived from blisters applied on the right side. 



DISLOCATION OF THE PATELLA, OR STIFLE JOINT. 

Among cattle this is quiie a common affection, 
lOsually resulting from slipping on the ice, or in stables 
where the drop or receptacle for manure is very deep 
and the floors not well cleaned. 




DISLOCATION OF THE PATELLA, OR STIFLE. 

Symptoms : — When once seen it will be readily rec- 
ognized again. The animal can walk only on three 
legs ; the stifled one will be dragged along behind and 
will be stiff and rigid. Where the patella should be, 
Avlien in position, a hollow spot will be observed. 
There will be inability to flex the aflected limb with 
more or less swelling around the joint. 



830 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

Treatment: — Fasten a strap around the fetlock of the 
disabled leg, pass it forward, between the front legs, 
then forcibly draw it forward, Avhen the patella will 
often drop into place ; if not, press forward on the bone 
(which is always on the outside) and it will readily 
drop into place. Then apply a blister, as, 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. 

Spirits Turpentine two ounces. 

Linseed or Olive Oil four ounces. Mix. 

Apply around the stifle morning and evening until 
the ligaments are strengthened. 



JAUNDICE. 



This is quite a common disease among cattle, and is 
caused by a re-absorption of bile into the system. The 
bile is secreted in the liver and emptied into the gall 
sack, and from there it is emptied into the duodenum 
or first bow el, to increase the peristaltic action of the 
bowels and complete digestion. There are many dis- 
eases of the liver that will produce jaundice. Gall 
stones passing through the duct and becoming lodged, 
will prevent the bile from passing into the bowels; it 
then becomes re-absorbed and diffused through the 
whole system. 

Symptoms: — In ordinary or acute cases of jaundice, 
eitlier suddenly or after a few days, you will notice a 
yellowness of the eyes and the lining membrane of the 
mouth and nose, and a general listlessness is apparent. 
The bowels will be constipated and what does pass, will 
be dry, hard, dark-colored and covered with mucous. 
The urine is high-colored and stains linen yellow. 
Rumination is generally suspended and the tongue 
heavily coated. Sometimes bloating will be present, 
but not always. Acute jaundice is not very often fatal. 



FITS FROM EATING B[TC'KEVES. 831 

Treatment : — When supposed to be functional dis- 
turbance of the liver, the object is to restore that ^land to 
a normal condition, or if gall stones be the cause, they 
may be removed by the same course of treatment, viz : 

Epsom Salts twelve ounces. 

Powdered Barbadoes Aloes, one ounce. 

Podophyllin Resin two draclims. 

Ginger two drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose in two quarts of water. After tlie 
physic has operated, give the following : 

Chlorate of Potassium. . .two drachms. 

Podophyllin Resin one drachm. ' 

Extract of Taraxacum one drachm. 

Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give in a quart of water or gruel, night and morn- 
ing, for four or five days. When convalesence takes 
place, feed carefully on easily digested food, such as 
bran mash, clover hay, malt, barley, etc. 



FITS ?ROM EATING BUCKEYES. 

Buckeyes are nuts which grow on trees, in a great 
many parts of this country. In the autumn, when they 
fall to the ground, they are a source of great annoyance 
to the farmers who use forest pasture lands. Some cattle 
are particularly fond of these nuts and eat them readily, 
seldom, however, eating them a second time if they eat 
many the first. When once observed, the symptoms 
will never be forgotten. For a while the animal will 
appear dull and stupid ; respirations natural ; pulse, at 
first full and quick, gradually growing small, weak and 
rapid. When the animal attempts to walk, -\t staggers 
around like a drunken man, striking all around wi*^h its 
forelegs and falling in almost any positi on, as if in a tit 



:h2 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



After lying a short time, it gets up very awkwardly and 
may stand perfectly quiet; but, if forced to walk, it 
will stagger around until it either regains its balance or 
falls to the ground. The animal may lie perfectly 
quiet, stretched out on the ground for two or three 
days, and if relief is not obtained, death ends tlie scene. 
By pressure on the stomach, you will generally feel the 




FITS FROM EATING BUCKEYES. 

offending agents. There will be involuntary twitching 
of the muscles and grinding of the teeth. * 

Treatment : — When first noticed, give a brisk physic 
to expel the buckeyes — 

Epsom Salts twenty ounces. 

Powdered Aloes one ounce. 

Ginger one ounce. j\Iix. 

Put in a gallon of water and give at one dose. Give 
per rectum, frequent injections of warm water. If 
within twenty-four hours the ani?nal is not conva- 
lescent, rumenotomy should be performed (see Impac- 
tion of the Ivumen:) after which give one of the follow- 
ing powders three times a day : 



IMPACTION OF THE OMASUM, OK FARDEL-BOUND. 333 

Bromide of Potassium two ounces. 

Nitrate of Potassium one ounce. 

Ginger one ounce. 

Gentian two ounces. 

Bi Carbonate of Soda two ounces. Mix. 

Make twelve powders. Feed on soft food, as, bran 
mash or linseed gruel. The balance of the herd should 
be moved to other pasture, or the nuts should be gath- 
ered and destroved. 



IMPACTION OF THE OMASUM, OR FARDEL-BOUND. 

Impaction of the manifolds, or third stomach of the 
ox, is sometimes met with; more especially when the 
cattle are poorly kept during the winter season and are 
fed on innutritions food, containing a great amount of 







-_vr^- 



IMPACTION OF THE OMASUM, Oil THIRD STOIMACH. 

woody fiber. Even soft, nutritious food, when thor- 
oughly masticated, appears very dry when passing 
through the manifolds of the third stomach. Conse- 
quently, when the food is innutritious, dry, possessing 
a vast amount of woody fiber, it is liable to become im- 
pacted while passing tlirough this stomach. 



S34 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

Symptoms: — At first the animal may be uneasy, but 
this is only of short duration, as it soon grows dull and 
stupid, resting its head on the manger or on other 
objects. The head is carried low down ; appetite and 
rumination are suspended; if in a cow, the flow of milk 
decreases; the tongue protrudes from the mouth, eyes 
are staring and blood-shot ; colicky pains arise ; the tail 
is switched from side to side. The first stomach some- 
times fills up with gas ; then the breathing is acceler- 
ated. The eyes are afi'ected and will bear the toucli of 
the finger without closing the lid. Sometimes the brain 
is afi'ected, when the animal will rush around as though 
it were mad, fall down and struggle as if in a fit, when 
death puts an end to its misery. Sometimes the dung 
passed while the animal is straining will be thin, and 
frequently blood and mucous are passed. The urine is 
high colored; pulse at first full and natural but grad- 
ually growing weaker. The disease may last but a day, 
or it may continue for a week. 

Treatment : — Give a good, brisk cathartic, as the fol- 
lowing : 

Epsom Salts two pounds. 

Calomel two drachms. 

Gentian one ounce. Mix. 

Give in half a gallon of warm beer. Follow this up 
with hourly injections of warm water and castile soap, 
as long as deemed advisable. Allow all the water the 
animal will drink, but allow no food until the bowels 
are moved by the physic. If the first stomach bloats up, 
draw off the gas with a probang or trocar and canula. 
Rub the legs with some stimulant as mustard and 
alcohol. Blanket well to keep the animal warm and 
give the following stimulant every four hours, in a quart 
of warm beer: 



HIDK-BOTJND. 885 

Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia 

two ounces. 

Tincture Nux Vomica. . .two drachma. 

Tincture Gentian one ounce. Mix. 

Never bleed in tiiis disease as it is dangerous^ even 
wliile the animal has a full pulse. Be careful after 
giving the first dose not to give any more physic for 
forty-eight hours. Then, if the bowels do not move, 
give half of the first dose. 



HIDE-BOUND. 



A great many diseases of the alimentary canal in cattle, 
cause great depletion in flesh, whereby the skin assumes 
an unhealthy appearance; the cellular tissue loses 
its elasticity, and to all appearance, the skin is fastened 
to the bones. Then the animal is said to be hide-bound, 
when, in reality, the disease exists in the alimentary 
canal, and the tightened appearance of the skin is only 
a symptom of some other aifection, such as indigestion, 
diarrhoea, disease of the liver, or failure of the secre- 
tory glands in the intestines to perform their work. 
Some animals present a pinched-up, poor, unthrifty 
appearance, without any tendency to take on flesh. 
Such animals may have some derangement of the sys- 
tem over which medicines would have no control, and 
may be classed as worthless, as you cannot make beef 
out of them. And they are useless in the dairy. The 
treatment should be to find out the real cause of the 
trouble, which is generally in the alimentary canal, and 
if this is properly treated, the skin will soon assume a 
healthy appearance. But I know of no disease among 
the lower animals which could properly be called hide- 
bound. 



336 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



Treatment: — When it appears without any assignable 
cause, disease of the digestive organs may be suspected 
and give as a mild physic — 

Sulphate of Soda one pound. 

Powdered Gentian one ounce. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a gallon of water, to be followed 
up with — 

Powdered Nux Vomica .... one ounce. 

Po.wdered Gentian four ounces. 

Powdered Foenugreck .... four ounces. 

Bi-Carbonate of kSoda four ounces. Mix. 

Give a dessertspoonful three times a day, in soft food. 



IMPACTION OF THE RUMEN, OR FIRST STOMACH. 

This affection is quite common among cattle. It is 
caused by cattle eating too large quantities of food 
which they may particularly like and of which, pre- 




IMPACTION OF THE RUMEN. 

viously they may have been deprived. Cattle are par- 
ticularly fond of clover, and if deprived of it for some 
time, and then obtaining free access to it, they are !'a- 



IMPACTION OF THE RUMEN, OH FIRST STOMACH. 837 

ble to eat so much that the stomach becomes so gorged 
that the muscular coats become partially paralyzed. Or 
cattle that have gained access to a large quantity of 
grain, will devour a large amount of it, overloading the 
stomach and causing impaction, with more or less tym- 
panitis. 

It is also caused when cattle are fed upon innutritious 
food, or food containing a vast amount of Avoody fibre. 

Symptoms : — Usually, at first, the symptoms are not 
severe. The animal will appear dull, and possibly, 
somewhat distressed; bowels constipated, appetite and 
rumination suspended, nose dry and mouth hot; pulse 
full at first but growing gradually faster and weaker ; 
horns, ears and legs grow cold; labored respiration; 
sometimes the animal will groan or grunt, and the 
breath be foetid or sour; paleness of the visible mucous 
membranes ; if lying down, the animal usually lies on 
the right side. By pressing the fingers on the left side 
the contents of the stomach will be felt like a hard mass 
within it and will pit upon pressure, leaving the inden- 
tions of the fingers there for some time. On percussion 
the resonant sound is absent, unless tympanitis super- 
venes ; but if no gas is present, the doughy feel of the 
stomach remains. 

Treatment: — If there is tympanitis, relieve by giy- 
ing the following : 

Liquor Ammonia two drachms. 

Tincture Ginger one-half ounce. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Or, pass the hollow probang, or taj) with the trocar 
and canula; after which give at one dose in a gallon of 
warm water the following : 

Epsom Salts twenty-four ounces. 

Ginger one ounce. Mix. 



888 DIBEASM OF CATTLE. 

Give repeated injections of castile soap and warm 
water, and every four hours give the following as a 
drench : 

Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia 

two ounces. 

Tincture Gentian one ounce. 

Warm Beer one quart. Mix. 

If the bowels fail to respond in from twenty-four to 
thirty-8i;x hours, rumenotomy should be performed, ae 
later the animal may become exhausted and unable to 
stand the operation. The operation should be per- 
formed as follows : First prepare yourself with the 
necessary instruments, which consist of a scalpel or an 
ordinary sharp jack-knife, two pairs of hooks, needles, 
white silk thread of the heaviest kind, some clean, 
white linen cloths, a sponge and a pail full of clean, 
warm water. Next fasten the animal by ropes with the 
right side against the stall or fence ; be sure to fasten it 
securely, so it cannot get away; have three or four 
assistants to hold it up and steady it. Commence 
the operation by making an incision through the skin 
midway between the last rib and the point of the 
hip, and about five inches from tho lionos which pro- 
trude from the back (vertebr;Tr\). Tlie incision should 
be downward and about eight indies in length. Then 
divide the muscles successively and cut through the 
peritoneum. ' Lastly the walls of the stoninch should be 
divided about the center; first make a small opening 
into the stomach; then secure the edges of the stom- 
ach with hooks and gradually pull it outward, while the 
incision is being lengthened both upward and downward, 
but not to the extent of the external opening.'- The 
edges of the wound in the stomach should be drawn 
outward to cover the external wound so as not to allow 
any of the food to fall into the abdominal cavity, as 



PNEUMONIA, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE LTJNGS. 339 

that would surely cause the death of the patient. The 
hand is then introduced and about three-fourths of the 
contents of the stomach removed, leaving about one- 
fourth behind, be careful not to leave any hard, dry 
lumps. You may then pour into the stomach through 
the opening the following : 

Epsom Salts ten ounces. 

Warm Beer one quart. 

Warm Wat-er one quart. Mix. 

Next wash off the wound and sew up the stomach 
with the uninterrupted suture, bringing the edges neatly 
together. Then stitch up the muscles in layers, taking 
deep stitches with the uninterrupted sutures. Lastly 
sew up the skin in the same manner. Immediately 
after, apply the following ointment : 

Vaseline four ounces. 

Iodoform six drachms. Mix. 

Continue its use until the wound is healed, or use 
some other healing lotion. The food should be light 
and soft, of the most nutritious kind, and given in small 
quantities. If the wound heals except a small opening, 
scarify its edges and stitch them together again. 



PNEUMONIA, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. 

Inflammation of the lungs may have various causes, 
such as exposure to cold and damp, being kept in tilthy, 
ill ventilated stables, a morbid condition of the blood — 
lungs, in their endeavor to throw off its impurities, the 
becoming altered in tissue, with inflammation as the 
result ; injuries etc. 

Symptoms : — The disease is generally ushered in with 
a shivering chill, which is not always noticed, after 
which the animals appear dull and stiff. The skin is 
dry and harsh, coat staring, nose dry, mouth hot; pulse, 



840 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



at first full and strong — from fifty to sixty beats per 
minute — later becoming small, weak and rapid ; mucous 
membranes are red; slight cough; anxious countenance; 
breathing short, quick and chiefly abdominal, the chest 
and ribs being held, as much as possible, in a fixed posi- 
tion ; bowels constipated ; urine scant and high colored ; 
patient lies down most of the time ; dullness on percus- 
sion ; on applying the ear to the sides of the chest no 







INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. 

respiratory murmur will be heard over the affected 
part, but the unafiected portion will be heard with 
increased force ; as the disease advances the legs and 
ears become cold, the breath becomes foetid and shorter, 
and an unfavorable termination seems imminent. 

Treatment :— When first seen while yet the pulse is 
full, bleed to the amount of two quarts; but, should 
the pulse be weak, do not bleed, and give every three or 
four hours, two ounces of the following, in a little water 
as a drench : 

Liq. Ammonia Acetate . . twelve ounces. 

Sweet Spirits of Niter four ounces. 

Fluid Extract Aconite one drachm. Mix. 

Also give the following powders every four or five 
hours: - — ' 



CYSTITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDEB. Mi 

Quinine Sulphate three drachms. 

Dover's Powder one ounce. Mix. 

Make into twelve powders. If the bowels are con- 
stipated give — 

Epsom Salts twelve ounces. 

Ginger one-half ounce. Mix. 

Give in two quarts of warm water. Apply mustard 
freely to the sides of the chest; feed on soft food; 
blanket well : allow the patient to breathe cold, fresh 
air and give plenty of fresh, cold water ; if the limbs 
become cold rub them tlioroughly with dilute alcohol 
and bandage. 



CYSTITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

Inflammation of the bladder is a very rare disease 
and is occasioned sometimes through difficult parturi- 
tion, or injuries from various sources. The urine of 




INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

cattle is alkaline, but from disturbed digestion and the 
injudicious use of drugs of various kinds, it sometimes 
becomes acid, thereby causing inflammation of the 
bladder. 

Symptoms: — The animal exhibits great uneasiness. 
Colicky pains are apparent with efforts to void urine, 
and sometimes, to vomit. The head will frequently be 
turned toward the flanks and severe constitutional dis- 



842 DISEASES OP CATTLE. 

turbance will be manifest. Occasionally, the urine will 
be voided frequently. 

Treatment: — In this disease, it is always policy to 
examine the bladder and urethra carefully, to ascertain 
whether there be a calculus or stone causing these symp- 
toms, which may be dislodged or removed. If the blad- 
der is distended with urine, pass the catheter and draw 
it away, after which give the following : 

Raw Linseed Oil two ounces. 

Or, 

Epsom Salts twenty ounces. 

Powdered Gentian three drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a gallon of water. Mustard 
plasters placed over the loins are beneficial, as are also 
injections thrown into or around the bladder, of the fol- 
lowing : 

Tincture of Opium four ounces. 

Fluid Extract Belladonna. four ounces. Mix. 
Put one ounce into a quart of warm water and inject 
every three or four hours. Flaxseed tea may be given 
freely. If pain continues give — 

Liquid Ammonia Acetate one pint. 

Fluid Extract Aconite . . . two drachms. Mix. 
Give two ounces every three or four hoursc 



EVERSION OF THE BLADDER. 

Among the cattle this is not a very common afflic- 
tion, except during difficult labor. However it may 
occur from other causes, as administration of powerful 
diuretics ; use of too much cantharides, either internally 
or externally ; any irritation of the bladder causing 
continuous straining. By violent attemps to pass water, 
followed by continuous straining, the vagina is ruptured 



EVEHSION OF THE BLADDEE. 



848 



and the bladder is everted, when it appears as a red, 
fluctuating tumor gradually filling with water, as it is 
unal)le to discharge its contents owing to the twisted 
condition of the neck of the bladder. 




E VERS ION OF THE BLADDER. 

Treatment : — Oil the hands with sweet oil and carefully 
replace the bladder ; then draw off the urine and, while 
tlie catheter remains in position, inject a decoction of 
opium and warm water. Then, if possible, stitch up the 
rupture in the vagina and allay the irritation and over- 
come the straining by giving drachm doses of powdered 
opium every two hours until relieved; or you may give 
twelve-grain doses of sulphate of morphia until relieved ; 
afterwards give a physic : 

Epsom Salts twelve ounces. 

Sulphate of Soda four ounces. 

Ginger six drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a gallon of water. To assist in 
preventing the straining tie a rope or strap tightly 
around the body immediately over the loins. 



344 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



EVERSION OF THE VAGINA. 

Willi cows this is quite a common occurrence and is 
the rt suit of difficult parturition, the animal receiving 
some injury therein; also is caused by tumors in the 
vagina or womb, straining after calving, retention of the 
placenta or afterbirth ; swinging animals so the whole 
weight is upon the abdomen, etc. 




TRUSS TO PREVENT EVERSION OF THE WOMB. 

Treatment : — First ascertain the cause and, if possible, 
remove it ; then oil the hands with sweet oil and care- 
fully press the vagina into position ; then wash it thor- 
oughly with — 

Gum, or Powdered Opium 

one drachm. 

Hot Water one pint. Mix. 

Place the animal in a stall, with the hind parts ele- 
vated fifteen or twenty inches above the front.' Apply 
a truss made of rope, fasten it around the neck and 



DROPSY OF THE UTERUS, OR WOMB. 845 

bring the ropes straight down along the back ; pass one 
down on each side of the tail to the udder, and on each 
side between the udder and hind leg ; fetch it up past 
the flank and tie it just over the loins to the rope 
coming down the back. Then make a few circles 
around the body and tie the ends of the rope securely. 
Thus you have the animal harnessed safely so that it 
cannot strain any, as the back will be kept in a straight 
line. Inject the above preparation of opium into the 
vagina every three or four hours and give drachm doses 
of powdered opium every hour until the straining ceases. 
If the bowels become constipated, give a physic as — 

Epsom Salts one pound. 

Gentian half ounce. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a gallon of water, and feed on 
soft, nutritious food. 



DROPSY OF THE UTERUS, OR WOMB. 

Occasionally vast accumulations of serum or fluids, 
are found within the womb. This, at the present time 
is none too thoroughly understood, although various 
theories have been presented. 

Symptoms: — The symptoms very much resemble those 
of pregnancy. The abdomen will begin to enlarge, and 
the owner usually considers her with calf, from the fact 
that the cow appears in a healthy condition, but as the 
period of gestation goes by without any signs of calving, 
the conclusion is soon reached that something is wrong. 
Upon examination the womb is found distended to a 
considerable extent and by pressure and manipulation, 
it will be found to contain a watery substance. 

Treatment : — Open up the neck of the womb with the 
finger, if possible, and allow the fluid to escape. If that 



316 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

cannot be done, puncture with a trocar and canula ; it 
will then escape. Allow the canula to remain until you 
have injected one of the following : 

Tincture of Iodine one ounce. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Or, 

Permanganate of Potassium 

two drachms. 

Water two quarts. Mix. 

Inject tlirough the neck of the womb, if it can he 
opened. The injection may be used every other day, 
until it has been used live or six times, then if the 
fluids continue to form, the operation of allowing it to 
escaj^e will have to be repeated, as often as occasiuu 
demands. 



LEUCORRHOEA, OR WHITES. 

Leucorrhoba consists of a chronic discharge of muco- 
purulent matter from the mucous membranes of the 
vagina, and, not infrequently, from those of the womb. 
Generally irritation of the organ followed by relaxation 
is the cause ; but relaxation alone will produce it. Want 
of nutrition attended with debilitating influences is a 
frequent cause. Sometimes, to all appearance, an ani- 
mal will be healthy and yet affected with leucorrhoea. 
On opening the lips of the vulva a sticky, whitish or yel- 
lowish matter will be seen ; quite frequently it runs out 
of the vagina and accumulates on the tail and surround- 
ing parts. As the disease progresses the discharge emits 
an offensive odor ; pulse grows feeble ; mucous mem- 
branes pale : appetite and rumination suspended ; mouth 
clammy ; gradual wasting of the whole system. Cattle 
affected with leucorrhoea are quite frequently seeking 
a male companion, but seldom get with calf, and if they 
do, generally abort. 



PLEURISY. 347 

Treatment : — Feed on soft, nutritious diet with tonics 
and stimulants. Give twice daily two ounces of the 
following, diluted in water : 

Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia 

four ounces. 

Sweet Spirits of Niter five ounces. 

Tincture Ginger five ounces. 

Tincture Muriate of Iron, -two ounces. 

Strychnia two grains. Mix. 

Use as an injection per vaginum twice daily one of 
the following powders, dissolved in a quart of warm 
water : 

Permanganate of Potassium 

one ounce. 

Sulphate of Zinc four drachms. Mix. 

Make into eight powders ; previously wash out the 
vagina and womb to remove all matter. 



PLEURISY. 



The term pleurisy is used to denote an inflammation 
of the membrane covering the heart and lungs, which is 
also the lining membrane of the chest. Sometimes 
pleurisy occurs in pneumonia or inflammation of the 
lungs, on account of the proximity of this membrane to 
the lung tissue. Sometimes it occurs as a separate and 
independent disease. The causes are exposure to wet 
and cold, filthy stables, sudden changes by being turned 
from warm stables into the cold, injuries to the chest, 
etc. 

Symptoms: — The animal appears dull and stiff, with- 
out desire to walk around. Fever is present from the 
beginning of the attack. The breathing is chiefly 
abdominal, the chest being held, as far as possible, in a 



848 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

fixed position. The patient seldom coughs, as the act is 
very painful. The pulse is wiry, ranging about sixty 
beats per minute. The head is carried low with droop- 
ing ears. Appetite and rumination are suspended ; nose 
dry ; eyes about half closed. On applying the ear to 




PLEURISY. 

the part affected, a grating sound is heard, although the 
lungs give forth a healthy respiratory murmur; pressure 
between the ribs causes great pain, sometimes causing 
the animal to groan or grunt. While breathing, inspi- 
ration is short, becomes painful, while the expiration is 
more easily performed and therefore lengthened. 

Treatment: — Put the animal in a good, comfortable 
place and blanket well. Apply poultices of linseed 
meal to the chest ; in its absence, poultice freely with 
mustard. Give every two hours, two ounces of the fol- 
lowing mixture : 

Liquid Ammonia Acetate 

twelve ounces. 

Sweet Spirits of Niter four ounces. 

Fluid Extract Aconite . . . two drachms. Mix. 
Regulate the bowels by giving a pint and a half of 
raw linseed oil, and injections per rectum, of warm 
water, every two hours. Also give one of the following 
powders every six hours : 



SORE TEATS. 849 

Nitrate of Potassium two ounces. 

Chlorate of Potassium one ounce. 

Iodide of Potassium one ounce. Mix. 

Make into twelve powders. If it terminates in reso- 
lution the disease will last but a few days ; but if it ter- 
minates in hydrothorax, or water in the chest, it may 
last some considerable time and require a different 
treatment. If there is much effusion into the chest, it 
should be drawn off with a trocar and canula. The 
place to pass the trocar and canula is between the 
eighth and ninth ribs ; after they are inserted withdraw 
the trocar and allow the canula to remain until all the 
fluid runs out. Sometimes bands of lymph plug up the 
canula ; these should be removed with a long needle. 
After the fluid has all drained out, remove the canula. 
Then administer tonics and stimulants to support the 
system. Give every six hours one of the following 
powders : 

Powdered Digitalis six drachms. 

Saltpeter .... one and one-half ounces. 

Sulphate of Iron two ounces. 

Powdered Nux Vomica one ounce. Mix. 

Make eight powders. Give in a pint of warm beer. 
Also give twice a day,. drachm doses of iodide of potas- 
sium, with four ounces of brandy and a little water. 
Feed on soft, nutritious diet. 



SORE TEATS. 



Around the teats some cows are more tender than 
others. The skin is tender and easil}' cracked, form- 
ing open and indolent sores which are hard to heal. 
These sores may occur at any season of the year and are 
most commonly seen on cows which have just calved. 



350 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

Cow-pox is liahle to break out on the teats at any time, 
and to cause considerable annoyance. It first forms a 
round blister which bursts and discharges a bluish 
liquid. It then scabs over Avith a thick crust which 
cracks open durinji; niilkinp;, or comes loose around the 
edges; or comes oil' altogether, when it leaves a small 




TEAT SIPHON. 

depression in the structure of the teat. It gives consid 
erable annoyance to the milkman, as the sores fre- 
quently bleed and his hands become covered with mat- 
ter, and blood frequently gets into the milk. When the 
teats are in this condition calves should not be allowed 
to suck, as it aggravates the sores and tends to make 
the cows professional kickers. The following ointment 
will be found to be very beneficial, especially during 
the season of flies : 

Vaseline two ounces. 

Carbolic Acid one drachm. 

Iodoform two drachms. Mix. 

Apply twice daily ; or, 

Vaseline two ounces. 

Salicylic Acid one drachm. 

Iodoform one drachm. Mix. 

Apply twice daily. Great care should be exercised 
in milking such animals, and if badly affected the teat 
siphon should be used. 



INJURIES AND OBSTRUCTION IN THE TEATS. 

There are many ways in which the teats become 
injured, causing an obstruction to the flow of milk or a 



INJURIES AND OBSTRUCTION IN THE TEATS. 351 

complete stoppage, giving rise to inflammation of the 
udder. The ends of the teats freqnently become 
injured from barbed wire, or from warts forming there, 
and often from the annoyance of warts in milking, the 
milkman seizes them and pulls them off, thus causing 
an abrasion of the skin, at or in the channel through 
w^hich the milk flows, and as the liealing process takes 
place, the channel grows together, shutting off" the flow 
of milk from that quarter of the bag. When this con- 
dition is noticed, the teat siphon should be forced 
through tlie channel and kept in position, if possible, 
until the wound is healed. If tlie siphon cannot be kept 
in this position, it should be forced through three or 
four times a day, until the wound is healed and the 
opening remains. 

Another and more frequent cause of obstruction is 
observed in the small tumors that sometimes form in 
the teats, varying in size from a pea to a good sized 
bean. They are generally movable. Various methods 
have been employed for their removal; sometimes they 
can be broken up with a knitting needle, or pass a 
shielded bistoury up tlip teat and cut them out, but 
neither of tliese methods have proved satisfactory to 
me. The most successful way to manage them, is to 
fasten the cow and cut down directly onto the tumor, 
then dissect it out, bring tlie wound together with a few 
stitches, and use the following : 

Vaseline one ounce. 

Iodoform four drachms. Mix. 

Apply twice daily, then cover with cotton batting 
and bandage lightly and loosely. Draw away the milk 
with a teat siphon for a few days, and all will be well. 
Sometimes strictures exists in the passage of the teat 
and greatly diminish the flow of milk. When such a 
condition is observed, pass a smooth blunt instrument, 



862 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

as a knitting needle or a teat siphon, up the teat, two 
or three times a day, gradually increasing the size, until 
the stricture disax)pears. Occasionally we find in fresh 
milch cows, the passage up close to the udder, cemented 
over, so as to allow no milk whatever, to enter the teat. 
In such cases, pass the teat siphon up until you come to 
the obstruction, then force it through and rotate it, to 
break the obstruction away, and there will afterwards 
be but little trouble. 



COW-POX. 



Every case of eruption or sores upon the udder and 
teats of cows, should not lead the casual observer to 
conclude that it is a case of genuine cow-pox. Indeed, 
cow-pox seems to be a disease originating spontaneously 
with, and confined to milking cows, as bulls are not sub- 
subject to it and neither are heifers, until they have 
undergone the change in life and become mothers. 
Cow-pox is infectious, and it may be communicated to 
man through inoculation, after which, if he be suscep- 
tible to small-pox, it will only be in the mildest form. 

Symptoms: — At first there may be some fever, which, 
as a rule, will scarcely be noticed, but which will be 
followed in a few days by an eruption upon the udder 
and teats consisting of small, red spots, which are pain- 
ful and hot. The spots at first are small, but within a 
few days, contain a bluish liquid that soon becomes 
converted into a yellowish matter. By the process of 
milking, these spots, which have formed pus tubes, 
become broken and discharge their contents, and if not 
broken that way, will burst spontaneously, after which 
a scab forms and in the course of ten or twelve days 
drops off, leaving the teat somewhat tender for a short 
space of time. During the eruptive and scabby stage, 



MAMMITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE UDDBR. 



863 



the milk should be drawn with the teat siphon, to save 
pain and trouble, and the attendant should not milk 
other cows. 




COW-POX. 

Treatment : — The treatment ie very simple. If in the 
winter, feed on soft food and give plenty of fresh, cold 
water; should the udder become swollen, painful and 
liard, foment well with hot water and poultice thor- 
oughly with flaxseed or bran. It is very seldom that 
any treatment is needed. 



MAMMITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE UDDER. 

Inflammation of the udder arises from many causes, 
such as bruises, wounds, bites of insects and reptiles ; 
allowing the animal to go unmiiked for a day or so; 



354 DISKASKS OF CATTI.E. 

takiiifi:; cold ; rheiiinatism and otlier fevers; being over- 
heated; allowinji' a superabundance of milk to remain 
in the udder previous to calving. The last named is the 
most fre(iuent cause among cattle of all ages, but espe- 
cially with young cows wliich are having their tirst calf. 
Symptoms: — Intlamnuition of the udder may exist in 
a mild form for a few days and then subside, without 
any alarining symptoms beyond a slight increase in heat 
around the affected parts. But Avith the severe form, 
there will be considerable fever and dullness. The ani- 
mal will have a capricious appetite and rumination 1)6 
partially suspended; bowels slightly constipated; the 
udder becomes very hot, is swollen and tender; milk 
will be decreased and sometimes totally suspended ; skin 
covering the udder is very red and glistening; if only 
one or two quarters of the bag are affected, they will 
appear and feel like hard tumors and may continue 
swollen for some time. The operation of milking is per- 
formed with difficulty on account of the painful condi- 
tion of the udder. The milk from the affected quarters 
will be thick and curd-like and frequently streaked 
with blood. If not relieved suppuration takes place 
within the udder, the hardened parts becoming soft and 
discharging matter during the operation of milking; or 
the affected quarter may point and break externally, in 
which case its usefulness is generally gone forever. 

Treatment: — If properly attended to when first 
noticed, mammitis will generally result satisfactorily. 
But if left unattended for some time the opposite state 
of affairs is certain. Put the animal in a good, dry, 
comfortable place, free from drafts, and administer in 
a gallon of warm water, the following : 

Epsom Salts one pound. 

Ginger one ounce. 

Nitrate of Potassium .... two drachms. Mix. 



MAMMITIS, OR INFl.AJIM ATIOX OF THE UDDER. 855 

Afterwards apply to the udder, for two hours at a 
time, fomentations of liot water; to eacli gallon of water 
used, add four ounces of powdered sulphate of iron. 
Immediately after bathin<r apply a hop poultice as hot 
as can be l)orne ; or a poultice of fried onions will do as 




BANDAliK FOR THE SUPPORT OP THE UDDER. 

well. Use a broad bandage and tie it up around the 
back to support the bag. If the animal shows signs of 
high fever, administer the following draught, every 
four or five hours : 

Liquid Ammonia Acetate, .four ounces. 

Fluid Extract Aconite. . .fifteen drops. 

Sweet Spirits Niter one ounce. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Milk the patient frequently, but if it causes much 
pain, insert the teat siphon. Occasionally rubbing the 
bag with fluid extract belladonna is frequently benefi- 
oial. If the udder still remains hard, the following 
lotion will be found of benefit : 

Rectified Spirits six ounces. 

Witchhazel eight ounces. 

Spirits of Camphor two ounces. Mix. 

Apply three times a day. This can be used from the 
commencement of the attack until the end. If mortifi- 
cation sets in, cut out that quarter of the bag and dress 
with the following : 



856 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

Vaseline four ounces. 

Iodoform five drachms. Mix. 

Apply thrice daily ; or, 

Chloride of Zinc two drachms. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Apply thrice daily ; or, 

Listerine six ounces. 

Carbolic Acid two drachms. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Apply frequently. Feed on soft, nutritious diet and 
keep as clean as possil^le. 



SPLENIC APOPLEXY. 



This disease seldom occurs, except among cattle 
which are fed for beef and fattened rapidly. It consists 
of a poisonous ferment created within the blood itself, 
during an unnaturally plethoric condition of the system 
and it is demonstrated by the extravasation of blood 
throughout the intestinal canal, brain, serous mem- 
brane, pericardium, et€., as found in post mortem 
examination. That it is poisonous is shown by the fact 
that dogs and pigs have died witliin a few hours after 
eating the flesh, and that men liave died from cutting 
themselves while skinning animals dead from this 
disease. 

Symptoms : — Great excitement, eyes staring, mucous 
memlirane^ red, mouth hot and dry, urine and manure 
mixed with blood, colicky pains, breathing accelerated 
and short ; pulse, from full and hard becomes quick and 
feeble and almost imperceptible. These symptoms are 
not always o})served, as the disease is of such shorV 
duration; the animal may be left to all appearance per- 
fectly well in the evening and found dead in the 
niorniniT. 



STRANGULATION OF THE INTESTmES, ETC, 357 

Treatment: — When seen in the first stage, give imme- 
diately the following : 

Epsom Salts sixteen ounces. 

Glauber Salts t welve ounces. 

Calomel two drachms. 

Ginger one ounce. 

Warm Beer, two quarts; or Warm 

Water one gallon. Mix. 

Constantly apply cold water or ice to the head and 
give every two hours the following : 

Carbonate of Ammonia, .two drachms. 

Ginger one drachm. 

Beer one quart. Mix. 

Bleeding is sometimes beneficial. 



STRANGULATION OF THE INTESTINES, OR " GUT-TIE. " 

This disease is seen only in steers and work oxen. 
When the animal is castrated, the spermatic cord 
recedes and becomes adherent to the abdominal ring. 
The cord is united to the pelvic bones by a fold of peri- 
toneum, which by pressure is sometimes ruptured and 
allows the gut to pass in and out and thus become 
strangulated. 

Symptoms: — The animal appears dull; colicky pains 
are present; appetite and rumination suspended; fre- 
quent straining with great effort, but nothing passed 
save a little mucous and possibly blood; pains become 
more violent and the animal kicks at its belly with the 
hind feet, lies down and quickly rises again ; pulse small 
and quick; the animal points its nose to the affected 
side; moaning and grinding of the teeth frequently 
occur; pressure on the right side causes great pain; the 



858 DI8EASf:S OF CATTLE, 

back is curved downward; administration of pnrf^atives 
produces alarming symptoms. 

Treatment: — The only sure treatment is by operating. 
Place the animal with its left side against a stall and 
fasten there securely. Make an incision in the right 
side, large enough to admit the hand. Pass the hand 
down to examine the abdominal rings and trace up the 
cord. When you come to the strangulation, sever the 
adhesions of the cord and the intestine is then li})erated. 
Draw out the cord and cut off two or three inches, 
then return it, and treat as an ordinary wound. 



WARBLES, OR GRUBS UNDER THE SKIN. 

This is really no disease but simi)]y the manner in 
which an insect, called the oestrus bovis, or gad fly, 




GRUB FROM COw's BACK. 

develops itself. During the warm months of summer, 
this insect flies about and attacks cattle, by piercing 
the skin and depositing an egg in the orifice. In the 
course of time a swelling is observed, caused by the 
deposition of lymph and the development of the larvae 
from the egg, which is in time discharged by the process 
of suppuration. It may fall upon the ground or in the 
stable. If the temperature is sufficiently warm to 
develop it, it puts forth wings and soon begins to deposit 
eggs for the continuance of its race in the manner 



LICE. 



359 



already described. Sometimes there are a number of 
these tumors that acquire the size of a butternut, and 
suppurate and discharge to such a deuree that they call 



^^'^^i^^^'^^ 




--■Ais^X--". c=^^-- 



(EBTRUS BO VIS, OR GAD FLY. 

for treatment. This consists of pressing them out and 
using some mild astringent lotion; the foUowing will 
Buffice : 

Zinc Sulphate two drachms. 

Acetate of Lead two drachms. 

Water ten ounces. Mix. 

Apply twice daily. 



LICE. 

Cattle are affected by several kinds of lice, but those 
chiefly met with are the smali, red lice and the large 
gray ones which luive black spots on tlieir backs and 
sides. They are most frequently seen on poor, debili- 
tated cattle that are poorly fed and cared for. Their 



iim 



DISKASK.S OF CATTLE. 



propaoation is very ra})id; wlien an animal liecomea 
infested, tliey are soon numbered by thousands and tlie 
wliole herd is speedily possessed of them. They may be 
speedily exterminated by the use of some of the foHow- 
ing remedies: Take one pound of stavesacre seeds, 
soft water two gallons; place over the fire and simmer 
down to one gallon. Sponge the animal all over and 
repeat every third day until three applications have 
been made. Or, take leaf tobacco one pound, water 
two gallons; boil thoroughly and apply every other 
day, for four or five times. Or, take blue ointment and 
rub it back of the horns and down the back every third 
day, for three applications ; this is the most dangerous 
and the animal must be kept tied so it cannot lick 
itself; also protect it from storms. If the stavesacre 
can be obtained, it will be f(nind to be the most effective. 



RINGWORM. 



Ringworm in cattle, is an allection that seldom calls 
S'orth much attention. It is usually seen in poorly fed 




RINGWOEIM. 

<-attle, although it sometimes makes its appearance on 
cattle in good condition. It is caused by a small para- 
site and is somewhat contagious. 



WARTS. 361 

S3Tnptoms : — The first symptoms observed, are roiiiKl 
patches about the size of a nickle, which sometimes 
coalesce, hut the well-(le(iiied ring will be observed. 
They generally appear around the head, neck, eyes and 
nose and sometimes on the shoulders, loins, hips and 
udder. 

Treatment : — If the animal is in poor condition, feei! 
on good, nutritious food and remove from other cattle. 
As cleanliness is very necessary, bathe with soft soaj) 
and warm water, after which use one of the following 
prescriptions to kill tlie parasite: 

Nitrate of Silver one drachm. 

Water four ounces. Mix. 

Apply every day for three or four days. 0», 

Chloride of Zinc four drachms. 

Soft Water four ounces. Mix. 

Apply once daily for three or four days. Or, paint 
the parts thoroughly with tincture of iodine, several 
times; or, apply acetic acid morning and evening for 
a few days. If tlie ringworm is close to the eyes be 
very careful not to let any of the medicine get into 
them. 



WARTS. 

Every person that is familiar with the care and 
handling of stock, has noticed these excrescences which 
make their appearance on any part of the body, but 
most frequently about the eyes, mouth, udder and belly. 
Warts are a skin disease in every sense of the word and 
do, not aifect the blood in any way, hence constitutional 
treatment is useless. They vary greatly in size, from a 
small pea to a large goblet, and are best removed with 
the knife. Cut them off l^eneatli tlie skin and apply 



im 



DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



either cliloride of zinc or corrosive sublimate in powder, 
to the raw surface, and they are not liable to grow 
again. 



WORMS. 

Cattle suffer more or less from worms, which accum- 
ulate in tlie intestines. Those most commonly seen are 
the large round worms, called lumbricoides, although 
tape-worm is occasionally discovered in cattle. 




TAPEWORM. 

Symptoms : — One of the most prominent symptoms^ 
is the linding of worms or links, if tape-worm is sus- 
pected, in the manure, also an irregular or ravenous 
appetite. There is a falling off in condition, general 
iN'eakness, with a hide-bound appearance, and some- 
times diarrh<pa with colicky pains, is observed. 

Treatment : — If tape- worm is present, keep both food 
and water away from the patient for twenty-four hours, 
then give two quarts of pumpkin seed tea, and within 
two hours after, give the following : 

Epsom Salts one pound. 

Gentian four drachms. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a gallon of warm water. If 
afilicted with other kinds of worms, feed on soft food. 



TETANUS, OR LOCKJAW. 36S 

as bran mash, etc., for a few days, then give the follow- 
ing before you feed in the morning : 

Linseed Oil two pints. 

Oil of Turpentine two ounces. 

Oil of Male Sliield Fern half ounce. Mix. 

Give at one dose. If one dose iails to remove them^ 
repeat in five or six days. 



TETANUS, OR LOCKJAW. 

This disease is not so common among cattle as it is 
among horses, but is to be worse dreaded as it is more 
often fatal. It is one of those nervous disorders that 
are none too thoroughly understood. There are two 
kinds of tetanus, traumatic and idiopathic. The former 




LOCKJAW. 

originates from wounds, ])ri(ks of nails, castration, or a 
skin abrasion from surgical operations, etc. The latter 
is of obscure origin and may be produced from exposure 
to cold, irritation of the bowels from drastic cathartics, 
from fright, etc. But from whatever source, the symp- 
toms are about the same. 



364 DISEASES OF OATTLE. 

Symptoms : — At first tlie casual observer might think 
there was nothing specially wrong, except that the ani- 
mal was lacking in appetite; ])ut the sj-mptonis grad- 
ually increase in force and intensity and it will tiien be 
noticed that the animal becomes somewhat stifi', with 
the nose protrnding. The muscles along the neck and 
back become rigid and stitf", the tail is slightly elevated, 
the limbs grow stiff and act like props for the body ; the 
mouth is closed, but there may be slight motion of the 
jaws. There is partial, and sometimes complete inabil- 
ity to swallow and saliva will drivel from the mouth. 
There will be grinding of the teeth, and if the head is 
elevated, the haw or membrana nictitans will shoot out 
over the eyes. Sometimes the patient will appear 
hungry and make attempts to eat but will only suck the 
food after it has gotten it within the mouth. At all 
times, the animal is very easily frightened. There is 
usually more or less fever, sometimes reaching 107° or 
108° Fahrenheit. If compelled to move, it will do so 
witli a straggling, staggering gait. 

Treatment :— First ascertain the cause, if possible, 
and if from the prick of a nail, pare the wound to the 
bottom and fill it with solid extract belladonna. Or if 
from a wound of any other kind, apply the belladonna 
frequently. Put the animal in a comfortable place and 
bed well, as cattle frequently lie down during this 
disease. Give a brisk physic, if the animal can swal- 
low, as — 

Sulphate of Soda twelve ounces., 

Epsom Salts eight ounces. Mix. 

Give at one dose in two quarts of water, or give — 

Epsom Salts sixteen ounces. 

Barbadoes Aloes one ounce. Mix. 

Give in two quarts of water, after wliich give — 



BLACK LEG, OR QUARTER-ILL. 865 

Bromide of Potassium, .three drachms. 

Chloral Hydrate two drachms. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Give three times a day or place drachm doses of 
gelid extract belladonna back between the teeth or on 
the tongue, three times a day. It will gradually 
become dissolved and taken into the system. Apply no 
irritating medicines whatever, such as blisters, etc., as 
they do more harm than good. Allow them to suck at 
water and gruel as much as possible, to maintain their 
strength, and one thing above all others is to be 
impressed upon the mind of the attendant, that is, to 
keep the animal isolated and in a dark stall, no person 
to go near it but the attendant himself, and then only 
to give medicine and food. Approach very carefully, 
as fright will cause a relapse. Some cases, when 
isolated in a dark stall and left alone, free from noise 
and fright, will recover without the use of any medicine 
whatever. 



BLACK LEG, OR QUARTER-ILL. 

This disease is rarely seen in the eastern, middle, or 
southern states but is frequently seen in the west. It is 
seldom ever seen in animals over three years of age, but 
is observed occasionally, in animals beyond this age. It 
is purely a blood disease and is caused from too high 
feeding of animals, taken from a half-starved or poor 
condition.' The reason it is most frequently seen in the 
western states, is because of the immense herds in that 
section receiving a scanty amount of provision, during 
some of the severe winters. They are -consequently 
very thin in the spring, and when turned upon the rich, 
nutritious buffalo and bunch grasses, they thrive so 
rapidly that a sudden change in the quality of the blood 



.t)()0 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

takes place, having a great tendency to decomposition. 
Although called black leg, it must not be taken for 
granted that the limbs are the only parts that become 
atl'ected, for the seat of the disease, while purely a 
blood affection, will l)e noticed at the point of the 
shoulders, the neck, back, loins, tongue and thighs. 

Symptoms: — The symptoms in the first stages are sel- 
dom noticed, but when observed, the eyes will look 
bloodshot, the urine will be highly colored, costiveness, 
with blood streaks in the manure; a full, quick pulse 
^nd hurried breathing; then if in the quarter, the ani- 
mal will appear lame, the quarter will commence t() 
swell, and by pressing the hand down over the swelling, 
it will emit a crackling sound as though there was air 
beneath the skin. If located in some otlier part of the 
body, there may not be any lameness, but the crackling 
sound beneath the skin, when pressed upon, will be 
ap])arent. This disease runs its course very rapidly, 
seldom lasting twenty-four hours and fre(iuently termi- 
nating fatally within twelve hours. 

Treatment: — If seen in the early stages, abstract two 
gallons of blood and give the following physic : 

Epsom Salts sixteen ounces. 

Sulphate of Soda eight ounces. 

Powdered Ginger two drachms. Mix. 

To be given at one dose in two gallons of water. 
Plunge a knife deeply into the swellings, in several 
places, and pour turpentine into the wounds. Give the 
folloM^ng stimulant : 

Sweet Spirits Niter six ounces. 

Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia 

one ounce. 

Tincture Ginger one ounce. Mix. 



KIIKTMATISM. 367 

Give two ounces every two hours in a pint of water 
or beer. Should a recovery take place, and the ulcer- 
ations prove trou1)lesome, apply 

Chloride of Zinc two drachms. 

Sulphate of Copper four drachms. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Apply twice daily. Attention should be directed 
toward the prevention of further attacks among the 
herd. As it is not contagious, no fears need be enter- 
tained from that source. Insert a seaton into the bris- 
ket below the neck and just in front of the forelegs. 
Keep the cattle in yards at night where no food can be 
had, and allow only moderate feeding in the daytime, 
until they become habituated to the rich, succulent 
food or pasture. 



RHEUMATISM. 



Rheumatic lameness in cattle is quite frequently 
observed, and is one of those diseases that is none too 
thoroughly understood. It attacks the muscles, tendons 
and fibrous structures around the joints, as also the 
heart, bowels, bones, lungs, or any other part of the 
animal. There is a specific condition of the blood, 
causing constitutional disturbance. It is undoubtedly 
hereditary with some animals, as is observed by follow- 
ing down through certain families. It also arises from 
other sources, such as being poorly kept, and exposed to 
cold and storms in winter; from exposure to the cold 
rains in the spring of the year, by housing in damp, 
wet, filthy stables, etc. 

Symptoms : — In the acute form, the first signs are 
general uneasiness and stiffness, staring coat, appetite 
diminished, rumination partially or completely sus- 
pended, the bowels constipated and the urine high col- 



308 ' DISEASES OF CATTLE. 

ored. Suddenly one of the joints will become swollen, 
hot and tender and probably the following day that 
joint will apparently be in healthy condition and 
another joint affected, and so continue to change about 
from joint to joint, or to the heart, lungs, bowels, bones, 
muscles, etc. \Yhen rheumatism assumes a chronic 
form which we most often see in cattle, it remains sta- 
tionary in wliatever part affected, as in a joint or whole 
limb. When in a joint, as in the hock, it becomes 
swollen, hot, .hard, very sensitive to the touch and 
causes intense pain. As time passes by, bone material 
is formed and the joint becomes solid. In other cases, 
the tissues above and below the joint, become swollen, 
hot and painful. Abscesses form and discharge matter. 
There is continued fever and loss of flesh. The animal 
will lie down a good portion of the time. 

Treatment : — Move the bowels with the following lax- 
ative : 

Epsom Salts one pound. 

Ginger four drachms. Mix. 

Give in a gallon of water. Next attend to the joints. 
Cold applications are not desirable in swellings of this 
nature, but warm applications are always soothing and 
prove beneficial. Cloths wrung out of hot water and 
applied to the swollen joints, give relief. Heated oats 
or salt sacks applied, are also beneficial, or use the fol- 
lowing liniment : 

Olive Oil four ounces. 

Spirits of Turpentine two ounces. 

Aqua Ammonia two ounces. Mix. 

Applv two or three times a day. 
Or, 

Soap Liniment four ounces. 

Oil of Turpentine four ounces. 

Laudanum two ounces. Mix. 



RHEUMATISM. 369 

Apply two or three times a day. If the pain is 
intense, give ounce doses of laudanum until rest is 
obtained, to be followed with — 

Quinine six drachms. 

Salicylate of Soda one ounce. Mix. 

Make nine powders. Give three powders each day. 
Or, 

Sulphate of Potash two ounces, l^ 

Sulphuric Acid one drachm. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Give as one dose, morning and evening. Bed well 
and blanket the animal, and arrange to keep cold 
draughts from striking it. Feed anything it will eat, 
but soft food is preferable, as bran mashes, boiled oats 
or corn, clover hay, green grass, etc. While the fore- 
going are worthy of trial, all may prove a failure ; if a 
favorable termination has resulted, immediately fatten 
for the butcher, as a recurrence may be expected. " 



DE-HORNING. 



As horned cattle frequently do considerable harm 
by goring other animals, it is just and proper to deprive 
them of these weapons of defense. It also makes them 
more docile while feeding. The operation is very sim- 
ple ; first confine the animal securely, then take a fine, 
sharp saw and saw off the horns close up to the head, 
taking off a small portion of the skin where the horn 
and skin come together ; then put on some pine tar and 
it will quickly grow over. Have no fears about the 
bleeding, as it will do no harm. When raising calves, 
the horns can be prevented from growing by cutting off 
the hair over where the horns start to grow ; moisten 
the parts a little and pencil with caustic potash. Do 
this when the calf is two or three weeks old. Two ap- 
plications will suffice. 



,.i^.-iv 







OBSTETRICS 

DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS 
IN THE MARE AND COW. 



CARE OF FOALS AND CAtVES. 



STERILITY— BARREN HORSES AND CATTLE. 

The loss to farmers, as well as to owners of stallions 
and bulls, on account of sterility, is sometimes enor- 
mous. Sterility exists both in males and females. If 
a number of females are bred to a certain male animal 
and fail to conceive, there is something wrong with the 
male and he is considered sterile. Again, certain 
females may be bred to a number of male animals, 
without conceiving, then the fault is with the female 
and she is considered barren. In the male, sterility 
may be due to many causes, as hardening of the testi- 
cles, the result of inflammation; softening of the testi- 
cles from being pampered, and liberally fed upon 
starchy food without sufficient exercise; imperfect de- 
velopment of the testicles, as in the case of ridglings. 
Change of climate has sometimes a marked influence on 
the generative organs, at times only for a season and 
again it renders them wholly sterile.* Self-abuse, con- 
tinued for a length of time, also renders animals inca- 
pable of impregnating females. There are also several 
diseases of the generative organs, which tend to pro- 

(371) 



872 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

duce sterility, as inflammation of the membrane cover- 
ing the penis, ulcerations on the penis, warts on the end 
of the penis, paralysis of the penis, tumors affecting 
either the testicles or penis, tumors affecting the excre- 
tory ducts of the testicles, enlarged prostrate glands, 
injuries or disease of the back and loins rendering the 
animal unable to mount; serving too many females 
within a few days, will sometimes render the male 
sterile for the balance of the season. Sterility in the 
female, has also a variety of causes. It results from 
imperfect development of the ovaries; changes from 
one climate to another, will sometimes render females 
barren; closure of the neck of the womb by inflamma- 
tory adhesions ; by tlie male during the act of copula- 
tion, exciting and irritating the womb, causing straining 
and ejection of the semen ; catarrh of the womb fol- 
lowed by a discharge of mucous; leucorrhrea or whites, 
a fatty condition of the ovaries in females that have 
been pampered, highly fed and are very fat and not 
receiving enough exercise ; tumors in the ovaries or 
fallopian tubes ; low condition, with imperfect nutri- 
tion of the ovum; poor feeding and chronic weakening 
diseases; from mares being advanced in years when 
bred for tlie first time. All tliese conditions should l)e 
met and attended to, if the owner wislies to breed and 
increase the quantity of his live stock. If from imper- 
fect development of the testicles, as in a ridgling, cas- 
trate at once and convert into a good work horse. 
When there is softening of the testicles, from being too 
fat and fed upon starchy food, give plenty of exercise 
or work, and avoid feeding corn, wheat, or other 
starchy food, and feed oats, bran mash, cottonseed 
cake, etc. When there is hardening of the testicles, 
grease them with a weak iodine ointment, to which 
should be added some camphor and extract of bella- 



STERILITY— BARREN HORSES AND CATTLE. 873 

donna. Where self-abuse has been continued for a 
considerable length of time, castration is the most prof- 
itable method to pursue. Ulcerations of the penis, are 
best combatted by filling the ulcers with calomel, a few 
times. Warts should be extirpated with the knife and 
afterwards touched with lunar caustic or acetic acid. 
Too much stress cannot be placed upon the evil of serv- 
ing too many females in a short space of time. One 
service a day, is all that should be allowed during the 
season. Two services may be permitted in one day, by 
allowing five or six hours to elapse between each service, 
but this should not be continued daily. The indiscrim- 
inate and injudicious methods practiced by some own- 
ers of sires by allowing four, five and sometimes as high 
as eight services in a single day, is very liable to cause 
a weakness in the testicles, so that the fluid secreted 
thereafter for a considerable length of time, will 
be deficient in impregnating properties, and although 
the animal may seem vigorous and continue in service, 
the female will fail to conceive, through no fault of her 
own. Closure of the neck of the womb, if by spasm, 
is best treated by greasing the arm with water and 
castile soap, vaseline, or hogs' lard. Reach into the 
female, and as soon as you come to the neck of the 
womb, insert one finger first, then two fingers, and con- 
tinue in this manner until the hand can be passed 
through. Ordinarily, a very small opening will suffice. 
Females will become impregnated when the opening is 
no larger than will admit a lead pencil. If the closure 
is due to inflammatory adhesions, greater force will 
have to be used. If you cannot force a finger through, 
take a small-bladed penknife and make a few incisions 
into the neck of the womb, then force an opening either 
with the finger or some round-pointed instrument, like 
a scratch-awl, and immediately serve with the male. If 



874 DISEASES OP THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

the neck of the womb is four or five inches in length, 
which is sometimes observed, a portion of it should be 
excised, after which place a small sponge into the neck 
of the womb until it heals, to prevent its growing 
together. When the womb is excitable and irritative, 
causing straining and ejection of the seminal fluids, it 
is best to give the female a good run or a hard day's 
work — something to compel the animal to become 
fatigued, then breed immediately and she will likely 
conceive. If from a fatty condition of the ovaries, 
where the animals are very fat and pampered up, place 
them to work and work them hard for a month or six 
weeks, feeding on a limited quantity of oats and hay, 
but if from too low a condition, and over-work, reverse 
the conditions. If from catarrh of the womb, leucor- 
rhoea or whites, see treatment for these ailments. If 
from diseased ovaries, the animal should be spayed. 
If only one ovary becomes affected, that ovary should 
be taken away, when the animal will possibly breed all 
right. When mares become greatly advanced in years, 
say seventeen to twenty, without ever raising a colt, 
they should not be bred, as the pelvic bones become 
solidified and difficult delivery is the result, probably 
ending in the loss of both foal and mare. 



ABORTION IN CATTLE. -^ 

Abortion, slinking or slipping of calves, to a breeder 
of fine stock is a great misfortune. It not only deprives 
him of the profit on the increase of his herd, but the 
animal fails to give her full quota of milk, which she 
would otherwise do, if ijermitted to run the full period 
of gestation, the system thus undergoing the necessary 
change. 



Abortion in cattle. 



87S 



Causes : — Abortion is due to many causes. It is some- 
times caused mechanit-ally, such as being injured by 
unruly and vicious animals, horning or bunting them; 
also by cattle that are continuously- bulling, jumping 
upon them ; from certain herbs obtained in the pastures 




CALF IN WOMB AT FIVE MONTHS. 

or in the hay; from too close in and in breeding; from 
eating frozen roots, drinking ice w^ater, slipping into too 
deep a trench constructed as a receptacle for the ma- 
nure ; also from smelling other cows that had aborted 
or had premature births, and from the last cause it seems 
almost like an epidemic in some herds. It is generally 
considered an abortion, when the cow loses her calf 
within the first six months of gestation, and during the 
last three months, a premature birth. 



376 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE OBGANS. 

Symptoms : — It is very seldom that any symptoms pre- 
cede abortion. Usually the animal will abort the calf 
and not miss a meal, but with premature birth, we will 
quite frequently notice a loss of appetite, suspended 
rumination, dullness in appearance and a disinclination 
to be with the balance of the herd. At first there is a 
yellow, glairy discharge from the vagina, sometimes red 
and streaked with blood ; if the calf is not soon expelled, 
decomposition soon takes place and an offensive smell 
emanates from the vagina, with a whitish colored mat- 
ter and small portions of the placental membranes. 
Colicky pains and great uneasiness are sometimes 
noticed. 

Treatment: — First isolate the animal from the bal- 
ance of the herd to a comfortable place, then make an 
examination, by greasing the hand and arm thoroughly 
with hogs' lard and passing it into the womb. Remove 
the dead calf and all of the membranes, after which 
wash out the womb with carbolized water, say half an 
ounce of the acid to two quarts of warm, soft water, or 
permanganate of potassium, one drachm to two quarts 
of warm water, once a day for three or four days. Give 
the following physic : 

Epsom Salts . . twelve to sixteen ounces. 

Powdered Foenugreek, or Ginger 

> . . one ounce. 

Water one gallon. 

Give at one dose, to be followed with — 

Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia 

ten ounces. 

Tincture of Oardamon four ounces. 

Tincture of Jamaica Ginger, two ounces. Mix. 

Give two ounces every three or four hours in a pint 
of water, or you may give four quarts of beer each day. 



NECESSARY AID IN NORilAL PARTURITION. 377 

until the appetite returns. At all times, give warm 
bran mashes and entice the animal to eat anything she 
will, and iiive all the water she will drink. 



NECESSARY AID IN NORMAL PARTURITION. 

When animals are about to deliver their young, they 
should have suitable places provided for them — more 
especially large animals, as the mare and cow. As the 
act of delivery is performed with a certain amount of 
pain and uneasiness, they should be left untied, and 
provided with a large, comfortable box stall, containing 
a sufficient amount of bedding to i)revent slipping and 
injuries; or if in pro^jer season, they will do better in a 
pasture field or meadow. When delivery commences, 
it is seldom that the aid of man is necessary, yet at the 
same time, he should make an examination to see that 
the little animal is started right — that is with the two 
front feet first, the head resting upon and between the 
legs, the upper part of the head and backbone resting 
against the mother's backbone; or if the hind feet start 
first, it will be delivered in that position ; but see that 
its backbone rests against the mother's backbone. If 
it lies in either position, do not meddle too much, but 
allow some time to elapse before aid is rendered, except 
it be a mare, then do not delay too long, for if the colt 
is not delivered voluntarily within an hour from the 
time of commencement, aid sliould be rendered imme- 
diately or the little animal may be lost. As it receives 
its nourishment and sup]3ly of air through the coverings 
or afterbirth,'^ thence through the umbilical or navel 
cord, should these become detached from the mother's 
womb, the colt quickly dies from inanition or want of 
air, if not brought into the external world. Sometimes 
females will act very sick, and the straining or labor 



878 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

pains will be exceedingly hard oi* heavy. Usually in 
such cases, the mouth of the womb hae not dilated suffi- 
ciently to allow it to start, or the other surrounding 
tissues have not become sufficiently relaxed. In such 
cases, you may give ounce doses of laudanum to assist 
in quieting the pains ; or half ounce doses of chloroform 
or chloral hydrate, as well as applying hot cloths to the 
belly ; or give a liberal amount of walking exercise, in 
fact anything to attract or divert her attention for the 
time being, to allow the parts to become relaxed. 
Placing a drachm of belladonna on the mouth of the 
womb, will often cause it to open rapidly. Use quiet 
and soothing measures, and in the course of from six to 
twenty-four hours, the delivery will be comparatively 
easy. However, when parturition or delivery is 
retarded, it is sometimes a question whether the young 
animal is living or dead; this is frequently difficult to 
determine, and as my experience has been I presume, 
almost equal to that of any peri^on of my years, having 
attended over twelve hundred cases in eighteen years of 
practice, I have resolved that there is ])ut one absolute 
or positive symptom of the death of the young animal, 
prior to birth ; that is, when upon examination, you dis- 
cover bloating or puffiness of the skin, and the hair 
slips off readily, decomposition has set in and there can 
no longer be any doubt but that the young animal is 
dead. '' Many and varied are the symptoms spoken of 
and called infallible signs of the youngster's death, but 
all have proven failures in my own experience, with the 
exception of the one referred to above. It is perfectly 
true that in fully sixty per cent, of the cases which I 
attended, the foals were dead, and about two per cent, 
of the mares succumbed, but many of these cases were 
confined in labor for from twenty-four to forty-eight 
hours before I reached them. The foal seldom lives 



KECES8ARY AID IK XORAL PARTURITION. 379 

over four hours within the mare, after the first expul- 
sive efi'orts or foaling have commenced, while a calf 
may live for two or three days. The placental mem- 
branes or afterbirth, do not become detached so readily 
in the cow as in the mare, lience the longer lease of life 
in the calf, after the labor pains have started. If, after 
the Avater bag is ruptured and part of the fluid has 
escaped, the natural expulsion of the young animal 
should be waited for. I will here remark that it is 
never necessary to rupture the water bag in the cow 
artificially, as it is very thin and ruptures easily itself. 
But with the mare it is quite difi:ereiit. The membranes 
are quite thick and firm and not infrequently the foal 
is droi)ped enveloped in the sack without it being 
ruptured, when the young animal would quickly perish. 
Therefore, when the water bag presents beyond the 
vulva or opening as a large sack, it may be torn with 
the fingers or cut with a knife or scissors, after which 
some assistance may be needed. If the forefeet and 
head are presented, take hold of the feet, and at 
each labor pain of the mother, draw steadily and firmly 
upon the feet in the direction of the mother's hocks, so 
as to follow the natural curve of the channel through 
which it has to pass; occasionally moving it from right 
to left, will assist greatly in working the shoulders and 
hips through the passage. When the young animal 
comes with the hind feet first, it will be delivered in 
this way easily, and will be recognized by the pasterns 
bending upward instead of downward, as in the front 
feet also by the feel of the hocks, which is vastly differ- 
ent from the knee. If assistance is rendered^ draw in 
the direction of the mother's hocks, the same as in the 
front presentation. 'But when the hind feet are deliv- 
ered first, immediately after delivery, seize it by the 
hind legs and raise it clear from the ground with the 



S80 DISEASES OP THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

head hanging downward, so that any fluids remaining 
in the nostrils and wind pipe, will escape. Many foals 
and calves are lost annually, through neglect to empty 
the fluids from the wind pipe ; the lungs are too weak to 
force air in through these fluids. When colts and calves 
are born head first, these fluids escape, as the head 
hangs downward during delivery, but when the head 
comes last, these fluids are liable to remain in the wind 
pipe, and death quickly ensues. Sometimes after birth, 
life is apparently suspended in the young animal. 
When this is observed, clean out the mouth and nostrils 
and dash some cold water upon its head, or take wet, 
cold cloths and beat them against the body and chest. 
Also take hold of both forelegs, draw them well for- 
ward to elevate the ribs, then gradually bring them 
back again, continuing to repeat this operation to invite 
artificial breathing; also starting a little blood from the 
navel, may assist in restoration to life. When the 
youngster is lively, but unable to stand and nurse tlie 
mother, you may draw some milk in a clean bottle and 
administer it. Always give the first milk of the mother 
as it acts as a mild physic, and if this has escajDed, give 
a teaspoonful of castor oil. In assisting the youngster 
to nurse, do not jjlace the hand under the breast bone; 
as it is quite soft and yielding, you may do consideral)le 
harm, even causing a quite lively colt to become sick 
and die. Many are lost in this way, the owner consid- 
ering that he was doing an act of kindness. When it is 
necessary to hold them up to nurse, catch one arm 
around the forelegs and breast, and the other arm 
around its haunches, and you will not injure your colt 
in the least. After the colt is a few days old, it is 
necessary for it to receive some exercise ; therefore, 
allow it to run in the barn lot, or if in season, turn tlio 
mare and colt to pasture. Calves sliould be treated in 



NECESSARY AID IN NORMAL PARTURITION. 381 

a like manner. The mother should receive some atten- 
tion after deliverinji' her younji;, as she is generalh' irri- 
tated and somewhat fatigued. She should be kept 
comfortable, in an airy place but free from draughts. 
If she has been sweating, slie should be rubbed dry — in 
fact a good rubbing is very beneficial at this time as it 
equalizes the circulation, allays restlessness, and hastens 
the contraction of the womb. Sometimes it is necessary 
to blanket the animal, as they are very susceptible to 
cold at this period. Give the mother a gallon of warm 
gruel, and bed liberally. Allow her to remain alone for 
an hour or so, wlien you may give her some more soft, 
easily-digested food, then if necessary, assist the colt to 
nurse. Feed upon soft, easily digested food for ten or 
fifteen days and allow lier perfect rest during this time, 
in order to permit a good flow of milk to be fully estab- 
lished and the complete recovery of the animal. If 
parturition has been prolonged and the animal has suf- 
fered considerably, and the womb and other organs have 
become bruis<^d and inflamed, she should rest for a 
greater length of time, and care should be taken to pre- 
vent inflammation of the womb. A few injections into 
the vagina will now be beneficial. Take 

Permanganate of Potassium 

half ounce. 

Water one gallon. Mix. 

Inject once daily, using a quart each time. "Apply 
warm cloths over the loins, feed on soft food, and give 
four ounces of glauber salts daily, to keep the bowels 
soft. Also keep in a clean stable, where the atmosphere 
is pure. When animals are either old, or weak and 
debilitated, and the labor has been prolonged with some 
bleeding following, stimulants should be given, as 
whisky, brandy, wine, etc. Rub the body and limbs 
thoroughly and supply plenty of bedding; and as the 



882 DISEASES OF THE (5ET?ERATIVE ORGANS. 

mothers contract colds quite readily at this time, shelter 
should be provided when turned to pasture, to protect 
against cold storms, for it should be borne in mind that 
cold and dampness are dangerous to the health of the 
animal, for some time following parturition. 



PARTURITION— ITS SYMPTOMS, ETC. 

During parturition, from the earliest symptoms 
developed by the attempted expulsion of the foetus until 
the foetus and membranes are delivered, is called labor. 
Symptoms of approaching labor and the termination of 
the period of gestation, are sometimes observed for sev- 




«L~^ee>>*» 



NORMAL PARTURITION, OR NATURAL LABOR. 

eral days before the event transpires. One of the most 
important symptoms is enlargement of the mammary 
glands — sometimes to such an extent that swellings, 
from the size of a saucer to that of a large plate, appear 
in front of the bag, also behind the bag up between the 
hind legs to the lower part of the vulva. Later on, if 
pressure is applied to the teat, it yields a watery secre- 
tion which sometimes escapes unaided and accumulates 
around the lower part of the teat, forming a gum-like 



PARTURITION — ITS SYMPTOMS, ETC. 



383 



substance or wax. The vulva increases in size and its 
lining membrane b- omes reddened; sometimes a 
whitish, glairy secretion is formed and discharged as a 
long, stringy, sticky substance hanging from the vulva 
and sticking to the tail and legs. The croup, on either 
side of the tail, looks hollow and feels soft and pliable 
from relaxation of the broad ligaments. The back is 
somewhat sprung downward, the abdomen distended 
and hanging low down. The animal walks about care- 
fully and is somewhat inclined to leave the balance of 




NORMAL PARTURITION, OR NATURAL PRESENTATION. 

the herd. In mares, swelling of the hind legs is fre- 
quently seen. As the time for the expulsion of the 
foetus draws nearer, the animal has pains of a colicky 
nature ; gets up and lies down frequently, and, if per- 
mitted, usually will seek a place of seclusion. As the 
uneasiness and pain increases, the os uteri, or mouth of 
the womb, continues to dilate until the womb and 
vagina form one large continuous passage. The mem- 
branes are now observed externally in the form of a 
water bag, which on pressure, is usually ruptured. The 
pains become more severe and frequent. The animal 



384 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

takes a full breath (as if preparatory to making a deep 
sigh), filling the lungs, and, holding it there for a time, 
brings the diaphragm and abdominal muscles into action 
to assist the uterus in the expulsion of the foetus. If 
the animal is standing, it brings its four feet close 
together, arches its back, elevates the tail, and takes a 
deep inspiration, the same as if lying. These labor 
pains are continued for a time, when the forefeet and 
head are observed to be passing. The spine of the foetus 
should be resting against the spine of the mother, and 
the breast and abdomen against the lower part of the 
vulva. In the mare, a few more labor pains and all is 
over ; but in the cow, labor is more prolonged and an 
extra effort is made when the chest is forced through 
, the vagina to the outer world. As soon as the young 
animal is born, the umbilical cord is torn apart, and, if 
bleeding much, should be tied ; but this is seldom' neces- 
sary. The remaining fluid now escapes from the womb 
and is sometimes tinged with blood, from the sudden 
separation of the membranes. Sometimes the foetus is 
delivered encased in the membranes, the uterine passage 
[being sufficiently large to admit it, and the membranes 
being very thick and strong. When such is the case, 
ithe foetus sometimes ruptures them when struggling, or 
ithe mother tears them apart with her teeth; if not 
speedily ruptured, the young creature soon expires for 
want of air. After the young animal has been deliv- 
ered, the next act is to get rid of the foetal membranes 
— "the after-birth." In the mare, the placenta will 
have such delicate attachment that slight contractions 
of the womb, together with the weight of the protruded 
ipart cause speedy expulsion. But in the cow, the pla- 
centa is not readily expelled ; its attachment is by coty- 
ledons instead of villi, and the contractions of the 
womb do not so readily detach them. There may be 



CAKE AND FEEDING OF PREGNANT ANIMALS. 385 

from forty to a hundred attachments, and from four 
hours to three or four days are required before tl)e 
membrane is expelled, and then it may liave to be 
removed artificially. If the mother is not seen during 
the act of parturition, or for some time after, the after- 
birth may never be seen, as cows, and sometimes mares, 
devour it as soon as expelled. 



CARE AND FEEDING OF PREGNANT ANIMALS. 

The measures for preservation of health in animals 
durinji' pregnancy, are those which should be observed 
generally with animals which are not pregnant, except 
a few extra precautions which should be taken, in order 
that the mother may pass the periods of gestation and 
delivery in safety. AVhen an animal has been served by 
the male and has conceived, she should not be allowed 
to associate with the male either in the stable or pasture, 
as attempts on the part of the male at coition and casual 
excitement on the part of the female, may do considera- 
ble harm, and even produce abortion. With such ani- 
mals as are kept at work — as the mare — it is bad policy 
to work them hard, especially after pregnancy is well 
advanced. Great care should be taken not to put them 
in a position where their sides are apt to receive blows, 
such as from heavy wagon tongues, etc. Neither should 
they be pampered and nursed in a stall, without exer- 
cise. The work should be slow, and if at all slippery, the 
mare should be well shod. They should not be used for 
saddle purposes, but if used, spurs should not be worn. 
Galloping, jumping, or in fact, anything producing 
excitement should be avoided. Should the patient be a 
mare used exclusively for breeding purposes, she should 
have a box stall and a yard in which to exercise. It is 
not at all necessary to cease working a mare for the two 



886 DISEASP^S OF THE GENTCRATIVK ORGANS. 

or three months previous to foaling; better to give slow, 
light work, so that they will have exercise up to the 
day of foaling. The food is a most important factor of 
success. Milch cows or working animals should be well 
fed, as not only their appetite but their physical condi- 
tion demands it. Some animals are prone to lay on 
llesh when pregnant; with such you should be very 
careful about feeding, as it may prove troublesome, 
especially if allowed to ]n()cced to the extreme. It may 
retard the growth of the fa^tus, produce abortion, cause 
difficult parturtion, or give rise to some other serious 
trouble, which will be more likely to take place during 
the last few months of pregnancy than at first. The 
food should be clean, of good quality and easily digested. 
Damp, bulky, mouldy or fermentable food should be dis- 
carded, as evil results are nearly certain. Grazing is 
beneficial if the pasture is nutritious, if not, supply the 
deficiency. The animals should be protected from foggy, 
damp or stormy weather. They should have all the clean, 
pure water they desire, for when at liberty with free 
access to water, they seldom drink much at a time. 
The water should not be too cold and ice Water is to be 
strictly avoided. When animals are housed, strict 
cleanliness must be observed, and when near foaling 
time, they should be placed in roomy box stalls. If one 
animal aborts and there are others pregnant on the 
same farm, the one aborting should be removed, as the 
excitement amongst the others is liable to produce sim- 
ilar results. The stall in which abortion took place, 
should be white-washed and strewn with slacked lime, 
to destroy the smell. Harsh or cruel treatment on the 
part of the attendant or groom should be suppressed. 
Young animals, about to bring forth their first ofl'- 
spring, should be handled very gently. Their udders 
and teats should be handled frequently, thus preventing 



CARE AND FEEDING OF PREUXANT ANIMALS. 387 

aversion to suckling their yoiini*;. As much as possible, 
surgical operations and the administration of medicines 
eliould be avoided. Above all things, avoid giving dras- 
tic purgatives, as the irritation they produce is apt to 
cause contractions of the womb, resulting in abortion, 
and endangering the life of the mother. The stables in 
which pregnant animals are kept, should have floors as 
nearly level as possible, for if the incline is at all great, 
the gravid uterus pressing backward, may cause ever- 
sion of the vagina and abortion. The doors should be 
wide to prevent the animal striking or crowding 
together its sides on entering or going out. 

Cows that are rich, heavy milkers, and more especi- 
ally about the time they produce their third or fourth 
calf and from that period on, are very susceptible to 
parturient apoplexy or milk fever, which being very 
fatal, should receive special attention. When we know 
that the subjects of it are hearty feeders, fleshy, and 
good milkers, we have every reason to caution the 
owner to take preventative steps to combat or ward off 
the malady, by a strict attention to feeding — more 
especially during the last months of pregnancy and 
immediately after delivering their calves. For two 
months before calving, the food should be soft, to 
prevent constipation ; and when the animal is quite 
fleshy, it should be given in limited quantities, in order 
to reduce the condition. The cow should be allowed to 
take daily exercise, as it greatly assists in preventing 
an attack of this disease. Extracting the milk by hand 
for a few days before calving, if the bag is full and 
large, should not be neglected. After calving, allow 
drinking water in a limited amount, and within four 
hours or as quickly after as possible, give a physic, as— 

Epsom Salts one pound. 

Powdered Ginger four drachms. Mix. 



888 DISEASES OF THE GENEEATIVE ORGANS. 

Dissolve in one gallon of warm water and give at 
one dose. If these directions are carefully followed 
and more especially the physic given immediately after 
calving, parturient apoplexy, or milk fever, will very 
seldom be seen. I will here add that it is more fre- 
quently seen in the rich milking, delicate Jersey, than 
any other breed ; but no class of cattle are exempt from 
this terribly fatal complaint. 



PARTURIENT APOPLEXY— MILK FEVER. 

This disease is seen in all breeds of cattle and gen- 
erally attacks cows which give large quantities of rich 
milk. It is seldom seen during the first, second or third 
calving period, but usually from that time on, and almost 
always in cows that are highly fed and in good flesh. 
It usually occurs within three days after calving, and is 
very fatal — fully one-half of those attacked die. If 
recovery does result great care should bo taken at the 
next time of calving, as a recurrence of tlie attack at 
that time is frequent and generally proves fatal. 

Symptoms : — Usually between the first and third day 
after calving, the cow will stand around dull and stupid ; 
appetite, rumination and milk will be suspended — or 
only a slight flow of milk present; the cow walks as if 
weak across the back, staggers around shaking her 
head; as the disease advances she falls to the ground 
unable to rise again. She may rest in a recumbent 
position with her head carried around to her side, or 
she may lie stretched out upon her side with her head 
lying upon the ground. Sometimes the head is shaken 
viciously from side to side, endangering those about 
her and being liable to break ofl' her horns. Occasion- 
ally, but not often, a few kicks with the feet are given. 



PARTURIENT APOPLEXY — MILK FEVER. 



389 



i^/*^- ''',^\'-]'\i% 




PARTURIENT APOPLEXY. 



890 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

The eyes become glassy and staring, soon growing 
insensible to the touch, with total blindness. Some- 
times the eye-lids will c^uiver and jerk for some time. 
The pulse, at first full and soft, later on becomes slower 
and feebler, gradually becoming almost imperceptible. 
The breathing, at first almost normal, becomes generally 
slower, prolonged and difficult; and frequently a rat- 
tling sound is heard within the wind-pipe. At the com- 
mencement. of the attack, the temperature will range 
from 103° to 104° F., and as the disease progresses will 
gradually sink to 3° or 4° below normal. At first the 
bowels may appear lose, but soon become constipated, 
and the urine is usually retained within the bladder. 

Treatment : — I wish here to impress upon the reader's 
mind that to be successful in the treatment of partur- 
ient apoplexy demands persistent attendance until 
death has actually occurred. I have seen cases, where 
the owner considered treatment useless and momentar- 
ily looked for death, make complete recovery. If the 
patient is seen when the pulse is still" full and strong, 
bleed to the amount of six quarts ; but if the pulse i8 
weak and the animal down, with the eyes insensible to 
liglit, do not bleed. As soon as possible give the fol- 
lowing physic : 

Epsom Salts twenty ounces. 

Calomel one drachm. , 

Croton Oil twenty drops. 

Ginger one ounce. 

Warm Beer one-half gallon. Mix. 

If the animal has become unconscious, give very 
slowly as it is liable to run down the wind pipe. Then 
draw away the urine by means of a catheter, or by 
slipping the finger well oiled into the neck of the blad- 
der, the urine will frequently be passed.^ Give injec- 
tions of warm water every hour. Constantly apply 



PAKTITRIENT APOPLEXY — MILK FEVER. 891 

rugs wrung out of hot water over the loins and apply 
ice-cold water or ice hajis to the head, as the brain ii- 
badly congested. Frequently draw away the inillv and 
keep the body and limbs warm, by friction and blankets. 
Keep the animal in a position as nearly erect as possi- 
ble, and give the following every two hours until recov- 
ery begins, when the time sliould be lengthened: 

Aromatic iSpirits of Amnu)nia 

eight ounces. 

Spirits Nitrous Ether .... four ounces. 

Tincture Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Tincture Gentian six ounces. Td ix. 

Give four ounces in a ([uart of warm beer or water, or a 
half pint of hot whisky every two hours. This may seem 
like heavy dosing with stimulants, but it is the pro])er 
thing to do. Should the physic operate and the animal 
begin to appear conscious of her surroundings, feed on 
soft and sloppy diet, until convalescence has lieen 
established. Prevention is the best and safest treat- 
ment for parturient ajjoplexy. When an anin)al is 
knowMi to be a heavy milker and is fleshy or plethoric 
in condition, she should be fed ])revious to calving, on a 
laxative diet and but sparingly. The milk should l)e 
drawn away for ten days previous to calving; immedi- 
ately after calving give the following drench : 

Epsom Salts twelve ounces. 

Glauber Salts six ounces. 

Ginger one-half ounce. 

Foenugreek one-half ounce. 

Water one-half gallon. .Vix, 

If these directions are followed you will not be 
troubled with parturient apoplexy. 



392 DISP^ASKS OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

OEDEMA, OR SWELLING IN PREGNANCY. 

In some of the coarser breeds of animals and, occa- 
sionally in some of the finer, during pregnancy swell- 
ings appear around the udder, extending forward as far 
as the breast and backward and upward as high as the 
vulva. The hind legs' will begin swelling just above the 
hoof, and the swelling will extend upward to the hocks 
or even to the groin. These swellings are serous or 
watery in character, diminish rapidly during exercise 
and increase upon rest. The disease is not of much 
consequence, being caused by deficient circulation 
occasioned by the pressure of the foetus upon the crural 
vessels. It is never seen in the cow, as in her the 
circulation through the mammary veins is more com- 
plete than in the mare. In mares it sometimes appears 
three or four months previous to foaling; but wiien at 
pasture where they can get regular exercise, it rarely 
occurs. It depends very much upon the conformation 
and temperament of the individual animal, as well as 
on season and hygienic management. No fear need be 
entertained, as it disappears in a few days after foaling. 
Should it occasion any inconvenience, give exercise. 
Or, bandaging, the application of a mild stimulating 
liniment, or scarification may be resorted to. However, 
this is very seldom necessary. 



EVERSION OF THE WOMB. 

Eversion of the womb can only happen when the 
OS uteri, (or mouth of the womb) is dilated. Conse- 
quently it happens only shortly after parturition or dur- 
ing the act of parturition. It is liable to occur amongst 
all breeds and all classes of animals. Mares seldom suf- 
fer from it, though it is quite common among cattle. I 



EVERSIOX OF THE WOMB. 



393 



cannot say whether or not it be from peculiar conforma- 
tion, but some cows are more subject to tins atfection 
than others. Tlie uterine ligaments of the cow are so 
extensive and elastic, that a few extra efforts or labor 
pains after the fretus is expelled, send the womb along 




EVERSIOX OF THE W'OMB. 

with it, or shortly after. If e version of the womb is 
thoujiht probable, the animal should be watched and 
before the womb can be everted, a pessary should be 
introduced and the womb maintained in its position. 
A truss should be used to prevent straining and the fol- 
lowing- drench should be given at one dose: 

Sulphuric Ether one ounce. 

Tincture of ( )pium two ounces. 

Bra ndy two ounces. 

Water one pint. ]\rix. 

Previous to inserting the pessary, remove all of the 
after-birth. 

Should the womb be inverted and lying on the 
ground, or hanging from the animal as it stands, gather 
It on a clean linen sheet, remove all the meml)ranes and 
wash it thoroughly with warm Avater, to which may be 



394 



DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 



awded a mild solution of listerine. Then cvjinnieTice to 
replace it. Oil yonr hand thoroughly, then close yuur 
list and place it in the hollow spot or center of the 
womb. Press inAvard slowly and carefully. If the 
animal strains be very careful, for fear of rupturing the 
womb. Have your assistants press on the sides of the 




TRT'SS TO PREVENT EVKRSION OF THE WOji::. 

womb towards your arm. In this way tlie womb can ' e 
returned. This should l)e done as quickly as p()ssi!)le 
after eversion has taken place. As soon as the \vomb 
is replaced, insert a pessary and keep it there from four 
to ten days. The pessary should be made of light wood 
about twenty-two inclies long and two inches thick, 
with the end inserted covered with a smooth, oiled 
cloth and the outer end having a hole bored through it, 
in which to pass a rope to hold the pessary in position. 
Fasten a truss made from rope around the patient, (as 
per illustration) but do not fasten it too tightly. Leave 



POST-LABOR PAINS — AFTER PAINS. 895 

loose enough to allow tlie patient to get up and down. 
Feed on soft food to prevent constipation, and give 

Powdered Ginger one ounce. 

Baking Soda one ounce. 

Saltpeter two ounces. Mix. 

Make six powders and give one powder every six 
hours, made into a tea as a drench. 

It is a rather difficult task to return the womb and 
maintain it in position. But be persistent in your 
work and your efforts will be crowned with success, at 
least if the patient is a cow. In mares, fully three- 
fourths of the cases prove fatal. 



POST-LABOR PAINS— AFTER PAINS. 

The painful sensations of the womb, after tlie expul- 
sion of tlie i'(jetus and secundines (wliich are fre(iueiitly 
observed) are sometimes termed after pains. They are 
due to contractions of the womb which continue for 
some time, in order to reduce its volume and cast off* 
the membranes. They are seldom seen after an easy 
delivery and, when they are seen, last but a short time. 
But when there is difficult or protracted labor, the after 
pains may last twenty-four or forty-eight hours ; or, if 
some of the placental membranes are attached, the 
straining is liable to be prolonged. The animal will 
arch its back, contract the abdominal muscles and strain 
violently, as though trying to deliver another foetus. If 
retention of the membranes is the exciting cause, they 
should be removed at once, as otherwise the after-pains 
will be continued and result in eversion of the womb. 
After an exploration to discover the cause of the after- 
pains, and removal of the membranes, should you find 
any bruises or lesions of the vagina or womb, wash 



396 



DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 




AFTER PAINS. 



PREMATURE LABOR PAINS. 897 

out thoroughly with warm water, and afterwards with a 
fifty per cent, solution of permanganate of potassium. 
Also give at one dose, the following mild physic ; 

Sulphate of Soda twelve ounces. 

Ginger • • • • one-half ounce. 

Warm Beer one pint. Mix. 

Then apply a truss, such as is used for eversion of 
the womb. 



PREMATURE LABOR PAINS. 

Premature labor pains frequently occur in the lower 
animals and are sometimes attended with considerable 
danger. Various things are supposed to cause them, 
some of which are exposure to cold rains; injuries; 
administration of certain drugs; feeding upon rye 
grasses, etc. I am inclined to believe that the quality 
and quantity of the food, exerts upon the uterus a 
greater influence in producing premature labor pains, 
than any thing else. Musty, mouldy, indigestible or 
fermentable food, will cause derangement of the 
bowels and, through sympathy, involuntary contrac- 
tions of the womb. Frozen food or ice-cold water acts 
similarly. The symptoms are similar to natural labor 
except that in premature labor, the animal almost 
always strains while standing, while in normal labor the 
position may be either lying or standing, and fre- 
quently both positions are taken alternately, while 
straining. During natural labor, the mouth of the 
womb is open, while, during premature pains, it is 
closed for a considerable length of time. The straining 
is intermittent and sometimes very forcible and, if not 
overcome, results iu abortion. 

Treatment: — Give drachm doses of powdered opium 



^j98 diseases of the generative organs. 

every hour, until the straining stops; then give at one 
dose, the following mild physic : 

Magnesia Sulphate twelve ounces. 

Ginger one-half once. 

Water two quarts. Mix. 

Tf this fails to act in thirty-six hours, repeat the 
dose. 



POST-PARTUM HEMORRHAGE, OR FLOODING. 

Bleeding from the womb, or " flooding," after abor- 
tion or after delivery at full term, occasionally occurs 
among domesticated animals and is very fatal. 

Causes; — Injuries to the womb during expulsion of 
the foetus ; premature removal of the placenta ; partial 




POST-PARTUM HEMORRHAGE, OR FLOODING. 

adhesion of the placental membranes; feeble develop- 
ment of the uterine walls and insufficient contraction of 
the womb. If a slight dribbling stream is noticed, an 
examination of the vagina will probably reveal slight 
lesions there, which seldom do any harm. ^ But if the 
blood issues forth in torrents, and there is a quick weak 
pulse, pale mucous membranes, increasing prostration, 



RETENTION OF THE PLACENTA — AFTER-RIRTH. »il)0 

staggering gait, chilliness of the surface, coldness of the 
limbs and breaking out of a cold clammy sweat, the bleed- 
ing is great and, if unrelieved, will terminate shortly 
in death. The treatment must be very prompt and 
effective or death will speedily follow. First, examine 
to ascertain the cause. If part of the membranes still 
adhere, at once remove them; but do so carefully or 
you will increase the hemorrhage. Remove all clots of 
blood. Then apply cold water over the loins. Also dip 
your arm into cold water, insert it into the womb and 
move it around, which sometimes will induce contrac- 
tion of the womb and thus stop the bleeding. If not, 
take a soft cloth or a sponge, dip into cold water, and 
insert in the womb ; or inject cold water into the womb ; 
or use injections of cold water and per-chloride of iron. 
If there is much prostration, the following will prove 
very beneficial : 

Brandy one pint. 

Tincture of Per-Chloride of Iron. . . . 

four ounces. Mix. 

Give three ounces every two hours, in a half pint of 
hot water as a drench, after which place the patient in 
a good comfortable stall, well bedded, and feed on soft 
nutritious food. 



RETENTION OF THE PLACENTA— AFTER-BIRTH. 

Beyond a certain period after the expulsion of the 
foetus, the retention of the placenta or "after-birth" 
should be considered unnatural and to require some 
attention. With mares this seldom occurs, but in cows, 
owing to the peculiar attachment of the membranes, it 
is quite frequent. In the mare the placenta is attached 
by line villi, which are easily detached and the placenta 
is only retained by abnormal adhesions. - In the cow 



400 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

the placenta is attached by cotyledons, varying from 
forty to one hundred in number, which are so con- 
structed that entanglement of the membranes is liable 
to occur at any time after calving. From this peculiar- 
ity of construction, abnormal adhesions are more fre- 
quent than in the mare. The natural mode of expelling 
the placenta, is by the contraction of the womb, although 
I have seen cases where the womb, had contracted and 
the OS uteri, or mouth of the womb, completely closed, 
and the foetal enveloi^es, completely encased within the 
womb, and could only be removed by forcible dilation 
of the mouth of the womb. But these are exceptional 
cases. The general rule, where there is retention of the 
membranes, is that the womb will contract, but its 
mouth will remain open with part of the membranes 
protruding through it. More frequently the membranes 
are visiljle, lianging down from the vulva. In the mare, 
the placenta, if not expelled by the efforts of nature, 
should not be aHowed to remain undisturbed, but should 
be removed within twelve hours after foaling. With 
the cow, danger is less imminent, and unless straining 
or hemorrhage are prominent symptoms, the placenta 
siiould not be disturbed for at least from one to three 
days, during which time — if not detached naturally — 
decomposition is liable to occur. If this be the case, it 
should Ije immediately removed or chronic inflamma- 
tion of the woml) and vagina may follow and leucor- 
rh<i:'a (or whites) be the result. When the placenta is 
not expelled shortly after calving, the following may 
assist its removal : 

Gentian one-half ounce. 

Ginger one ounce. 

Fcjenugreek one ounce. 

Anise one ounce. 

Bi-Garbonate of Soda one ounce. Mix. 



HERNIA OF THE UTERUS, OR WO.^IB. 401 

Make two powders and give morning and evening. 
After a lapse of three days, it is advisable to remove 
the placenta by a manual operation. First see that 
there are no abrasions of the skin on your hand or arm, 
tlirough which absorption of putrid matter can take 
place and so lead to blood poisoning. Then grease your 
liand and arm and pass between the placenta and the 
walls of the womb. As you meet the cotyledons, unfasten 
the membranes in the same manner in which you unbut- 
ton your coat; proceed to the next, and so on until you 
have unfastened them all. Use gentle traction with 
the other hand all the time, as some of them will be 
detached by traction alone. When you have detached 
the placenta from all the cotyledons, it will drop out 
easily. After the placenta is detached, when there is a 
very foetid odor, wash out the womb thoroughly Avith a 
soft cloth and warm water, to which may be added a 
drachm of permanganate of potassium. Then feed on 
a nutritious diet, to which add a dessert spoonful of 
glauber salts morning and evening. In the mare, take 
tlie same precautions before removing the placenta. 
Grease the arm thoroughly, then pass the hand gently 
between the placenta and womb, separating the attach- 
ments slowly and carefully, using traction with the 
other hand. If the attachments are very close or ab- 
normally adhered, break them down, when the placenta 
is easily removed. Keep her quiet for a time ; feed soft 
food to which add twice daily a teaspoonful of — 

Glauber Salts eight ounces. 

Saltpetre four ounces. Mix. 



HERNIA OF THE UTERUS, OR WOMB. 

This accident is not frequent, though it sometimes 
occurs. During the eighteen years of my practice I 



402 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE OROANS, 

have worked extensively in obstetrical cases, and have 
seen only five mares with hernia of the womb and 
not one cow. Hernia of the womb consists of a 
breaking down or separation of the abdominal muscles 
through which the womb and contents pass until they 
come in contact with the skin, which from its elastic 
nature, is carried down- sometimes within fifteen to 




HERNIA OF THE UTERUS (OR WOJIB). 

eighteen inches from the ground. The bag and teats 
are generally carried down with the skin and frequently 
form the lowest point of the tumor. The causes of uterine 
hernia are none too thorougly understood, but that 
which seems to me the most reasonable supposition, is 
that the uterine muscles become ruptured or relaxed, 
thus allowing tlie gravid uterus to rest entirely upon the 
abdominal nuu^-<les. These become weakened from the 
abdominal strain, after which the energetic movements 



HERNIA OF THE UTERUS, OR WOMB. 403 

of the foetus, materially assist in forming the rent in the 
abdominal muscles. In the first case of this descripli >n 
that I ever saw, I was somewhat puzzled, as the owner 
did not know whether the mare was in foal or not; and 
I was unable to ascertain any signs of life, though the 
mare presented the appearance of being with foal. I 
then determined upon exploring the tumor by inserting 
a small trocar and canula. In a moment the amniotic 
fluid began to escape and soon the foetus began to 
struggle. I immediately withdrew the canula and 
applied bandages. In about a month after, I delivered 
her of a dead colt fully developed. The operation was 
rather diflScult and the mare died in a few hours. A 
post mortem examination revealed a complete rupture 
or rather lacerations of the oblique muscles as well as 
of the rectus muscles and linea alba. Had the mare 
lived she would have been useless either for work or for 
breeding purposes. 

This accident seldom takes place until within the 
last two months of pregnancy. When it befalls a cow, 
I would recommend that she be fattened and sold to the 
butcher. But mares, which are not used for food and 
can be utilized in no way other than breeding or work- 
ing, may be bred again. I have known one mare, whicli 
I was called to deliver on account of a wrong presenta- 
tion, and which had a comparatively bad uterine hernia, 
to bring forth two living foals, entirely unassisted, dur- 
ing the next two years after my attending her. After 
this she was sold, left the neighborhood, and I lost trace 
of her. When females are found to be in this condi- 
tion previous to time of delivery, they should be sup- 
ported with broad bandages. At the time of delivery, 
trouble should be anticipated and they should receive 
prompt attention. If unable to deliver spontaneously, 
have a number of assistants to place a broad blanket 



404 DiSEASP^s or the generative orgaks. 

under the abdomen and raise it up as high as possible. 
Then should the presentation be the buttock, the oper- 
ator should push it a little toward the side opposite to 
the legs and seize the hind legs, one at a time, and 
bring them into the natural passage. Fasten a quarter- 
inch rope, well greased, around the pasterns, separately. 
Then pull with considerable force, the assistants still 
holding up the abdomen, and you may expect a safe 
delivery, providing there are no malformations. If it 
be a head presentation, fasten a rope around the neck 
and lower jaw ; then push the head in and to one side. 
Next endeavor to bring the forefeet up into the natural 
passage, fasten a rope around the pasterns, then draw 
the head back betwen the front legs and pull. Use 
plenty of fresh hogs' lard if the membranes are in the 
least dry, also have all ropes or straps well greased 
while using them, to assist delivery. If you are 
unable to deliver in this position, make a deep, soft 
bed of straw and, if the animal will lie down, all the 
better. If she will not lie down herself, lay her down 
as easily as possible. Then secure her limbs to prevent 
her doing injury and roll her on her back ; have plenty 
of assistants to hold her there, with her hind quarters 
raised higher than the fore. Have some handy assist- 
ant to try to reduce the tumor while the ojDerator is try- 
ing to seize the parts which are most convenient. If 
there be a head or a breast presentation secure it in the 
manner prescribed before and, when everything is 
straight, apply traction and complete the delivery. 
But, in case you cannot deliver by the natural passage, 
and the colt is living and would prove more valuable 
than the mother, you can secure the animal and perform 
the Ca?sarean section, which is to open the abdomen 
sufficiently to deliver the f<ptus in that way, after 
which I believe it profitable to destroy the mare and 



RUPTUEE OF THE PKRUTEUM. 405 

raise the colt on cows' milk. But in the case of the 
oow, you may stitch up the wound after removing the 
afterbirth; then stitch up the integument (skin) and 
try to save her. If she lives, she should be fattened for 
slaughter. 



RUPTURE OF THE PERINEUM. 

Generally, this accident is the result of difficult par- 
turition, though sometimes it is caused by unruly stal- 
lions. As a result of parturition, rupture of the vagina 
is a frequent occurrence, and sometimes we meet with 
rupture of the perineum and rectum combined. In 
other cases the lierineum may be ruptured and the 
sphincter muscles undisturbed ; while in some cases the 
rupture will extend clear out, severing the sphincter 
muscles. If the foetus be not in a natural position, 
the uterine contractions driving it backward may force 
the limbs or the head through the perineum and pre- 
sent them at the anal opening. If assistance is not at 
hand and the parts presenting are not returned and 
placed in the proper channel, the expulsive efforts of 
the mother will cause them to tear the perineum and 
sphincter muscles asunder and thus deliver the foetus — 
sometimes dead and sometime living — but leaving an 
unsightly appearance, as the vagina and rectum are 
one continuous slit. The results vary, owing consider- 
al)ly to the extent of the injury. If the laceration is 
n<^)t great, no serious results need be anticipated. But 
if the laceration be great and the sphincter be torn 
through, a suppurative intlammation may occur with a 
continuous discharge of pus, smearing the tail and legs 
and causing the animal to present an unsightly appear- 
ance. Others seem to experience no inconvenience, a 
partial recovery takes place, the animal appears per- 



406 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

fectly healthy, may breed again and bring forth its 
progeny without any evil results. 

Treatment: — Trim off evenly the lacerated margins, 
bringing them together with the cat-gut suture, using 
the interrupted stitch. Then introduce a tampon or 
plug into the vagina to support the septum during 
defecation. Apply cold water frequently to keep down 
the inflammation, and twice daily use the following 
dressing all along the laceration : 

Vaseline four ounces. 

Carbolic Acid two drachms. Mix. 

Should the stitches tear out, you may replace them 
a second or third time. After that it will be useless. 
"While the stitches are intact, place the animal in a 
narrow stall to prevent her lying down. If there is 
much bleeding when the laceration occurs, arrest it 
with cold water ; if that fails, apply tincture of per- 
sulphide of iron. Feed on soft, sloppy food, and give 
frequent injections of pure water, to soften the dung 
and thus relieve the strain on the perineum. 



METRO-PERITONITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE WOMB 
AND PERITONEUM. 

This disease alfects animals of all ages, and results 
from difficult parturition, retention of the f(etal mem- 
branes, inversion of the womb, exposure to wet and 
cold, drinking ice-cold water, etc. 

Symptoms : — The disease may occur from within a few 
hours after parturition up to the fifth or sixth dayl At 
first the animal will appear dull with loss of appetite; 
visible mucous membranes injected red ; secretion of 
milk dimished; pulse quick, full and hard; bowels con- 
stipated ; urine diminished in quantity ; colicky pains 



METRO-PERITONITIS, ETC. 407 

are present, manifested by frequently lying down and 
getting up until lying down becomes too painful, from 
the pressure of the abdominal muscles on the womb ; 
striking at the belly with the hind feet; pointing witli 
the nose at the flanks ; respiration accelerated ; abdomen 
tucked up. As the disease advances, the pulse grows 
small, feeble and wiry ; the animal becomes insensible 
of objects around her and plunges about with great vio- 
lence ; death shortly follows. 

Treatment : — First examine the womb. If any of the 
membranes adhere, they should be removed at once. 
Wash the womb out thoroughh^ with warm water, to 
which add a little carbolic acid — one part of acid to 
forty of water. This should be repeated twice daily. 
If the bowels are constipated and the patient is a mare, 
give the following physic at one dose in half a pint of 
water, as a drench : 

Aloes one ounce. 

Calomel one drachm. 

Ginger one-half ounce. Mix. 

For the same condition in a cow, give at one dose in 
a gallon of water, the following : 

Magnesia Sulph twenty ounces. 

Calomel two drachms. 

Ginger one ounce. Mix. 

After which give every four or five hours one of the 
following powders : 

Quinine Sulph four drachms. 

Salicylic Acid four drachms. Mix, 

Make into six powders. Or the following, given 
every four hours, will be found beneficial : 

Liquid Ammonia Acetate 

three ounces. 

Fluid Extract Aconite. . .twenty dr(»ps. Mix. 



408 DISEASES OF THK GENERATIVE OROAXS. 

If the animal's temperature remains lii,i;h, place a 
sheet, wet with cold water, around the body and keep 
wettinf? it with a sprinkling can for an hour, after 
which rub the animal dry and place warm, dry blankets 
over it. When convalescence has occurred good food 
and tonics should be administered. Give one of the 
following powders three times a day : 

l*owdered kSulphate of Iron 

one and one-half ounces. 

Nux Vomica two ounces. 

Ginger one ounce. 

Potassium of Nitrate 

one I'.nd one-half ounces. IMix. 

Divide into sixteen powders. While the pain is 
very severe, the application of mustard to the abdomen 
is very beneticial. Aflcn- the disease has abated, if 
there is a chronic discharge from the womb, the treat- 
ment given for leucorrlnpa will suthce. The person 
examining the womb should be very careful, and see that 
there are no fresh sores on his hands or arms and grease 
them thoroughly to prevent inoculation and blood poi- 
soning. 



UMBILICAL HEMORRHAGE, OR BLEEDING FROM THE 

NAVEL. 

Bleeding from the umbilical cord, of an alarming 
nature, is not a very common accident, nevertheless it 
sometimes occurs and occasionally so profusely as to 
cause death. It generally happens immediately after 
birth or within a short period afterwards and may con- 
tinue for some time in small quantities, but sutficient to 
produce great debility. The bleeding is " generally 
caused bv the cord's being cut or l)roken off too close to 



UAiBt-L.CAL HEMORRHAGK, KTC, 409 

tlie abdomen; it may be due to a varicose condition of 
the cord. Sometimes, after the cord is tied, when suffi- 
ciently long enough to admit of it, the mother will nip 
it off closer and so induce bleeding. 

Treatment: — When the bleeding is slight and not 
likely to be continued, little or no treatment is required. 
If possible, seize the cord and tie; if not apply tannic 
acid, alum, or per-chloride of iron and bandage, after 
placing some cotton batting saturated with Monsell's 
solution of iron upon the cord. Or you may take a 
needle and thread and pass it through the skin on both 
sides of the cord, then tie it tightly and you will com- 
pletely close the opening, but in doing this be careful 
not to penetrate or include the intestines. 



PERSISTENCE OF THE URACHUS, OR URINE PASSING 
FROM THE NAVEL. 

What is understood by tlie uraclius, is the canal 
formed by the middle portion of the allantois, which 
passes through the umbilical ring and communicates with 
the bladder through which the urine is conveyed to the 
allantoid sack, during foetal life. After birth the 
urachus should become obliterated and the bladder 
should be retracted and further developed within tlie 
pelvic cavity, the urine then passing through the natural 
channels. It sometimes happens the urachus does 
not close up and disappear, and the urine is passed 
through the navel. It more frequently occurs in males 
than in females. In the latter it generally comes by 
drops and quite frequently ceases spontaneously, while 
in the male it usually runs in a stream and is more dan- 
gerous. 



410 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

Treatment : — In a great many cases no treatment is 
required, the escape of urine ceasing in a few days 
after birth ; but, where treatment is demanded, a cure 
can usually be effected. If the urachus is sufficiently 
long, seize it and tie it. If tliis cannot be done, grasp 
the cord between the thumb and fingers and raise it up ; 
then pass a stitch in a circle clear around the cord and 
tie it tight. The urachus is then closed. But be care- 
ful not to gather any more skin than is actually neces- 
sary into the stitch. If tlie urethra, or natural channel 
for the urine to pass by, is not opened, get the longest 
human catheter obtainable and pass it to open the 
channel. 



UMBILICAL HERNIA, OR RUPTURE OF THE NAVEL. 

Rupture of the navel is most frequently congenital, 
although it sometimes occurs two or three months after 
birth, when it would be called accidental hernia. A 
small, round tumor, situated at the navel opening and 
varying in size from that of a bird's egg to that of a 
goose egg or even larger, is observed. It is usually soft 
and fluctuating and easily reduced within the abdomi- 
nal cavity by manipulation with the fingers, just as 
readily returning when the hand is removed. Some- 
times it presents a doughy or hard appearance, when 
probably the intestines within the sack are filled with 
alimentary matter. When the intestines are returned, 
the opening will present a circular or elliptical shape, 
and around the edges it will be tense and hard to the 
touch. 

Treatment: — In a great majority of cases when the 
tumor is not very large, if allowed to remain undisturbed 
nature will bring about a complete cure varying in time 
from three months to three years of age. I have 



RETENTION OF THE MECONIUM, ETC. 411 

applied a broad bandage with very gratifying results 
and would recommend it strongly. Constriction of the 
tumor is an excellent method of effecting a cure. First 
cast the animal and secure it firmly, place it on its back 
and maintain it in that position. Then manipulate the 
tumor until the intestines are returned to the abdominal 
cavity. Next grasp the skin over the tumor and raise 
it up as far as you can stretch it, and fasten a pair of 
clamps as close to the abdomen as possible. Fasten 
them tightly. Then put a couple of wooden pegs through 
the skin, protruding beyond the clamp, to keep it from 
slipi)ing off when the animal is standing. In this way 
you set up an adhesive inflammation, forming a plug 
filling up the opening by the time the clamp sloughs off. 
Some practitioners recommend the application of nitric 
acid to the tumor and report good results ; but I have 
never tried it. But to inject into the sub-cutaneous 
connective tissue a few drojDS of salt water, around the 
rupture, will, in a great many cases, through irritation 
set up a healthy inflammation, throwing out a plastic 
substance, filling the cavity, thus forcing the intestines 
back within the abdominal cavity and completely plug- 
ging up the opening. This operation can be done with 
the ordinary hypodermic syringe, care being taken not 
to insert it too deep. 



RETENTION OF THE MECONIUM, OR CONSTIPATION 
SHORTLY AFTER BIRTH. 

The contents of the intestines previous to birth is 
called meconium. This is generally expelled immedi- 
ately after birth ; but when it is retained for any length 
of time, serious results follow if left unrelieved.' This 
occurs, perhaps, more frequently with the colt than 
Avith any other animal, but occasionally happens with 



412 DISEASES OP THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

calves. It generally occurs in animals that are weakly 
and not thoroughly developed. It is generally caused 
by the mothers being fed on dry fodder for a length of 
time, or by her milk being thin and not rich in those 
purgative elements so necessary for the newly bom 
animal. Hence, it is generally seen in those colts and 
calves that come in the winter and early spring, previous 
to the mother being turned out to pasture. 

Symptoms : — Within a few days after birth, the little 
animal appears uneasy and refuses to suck; shows 
symptoms of colic, lies down and rolls around, occas- 
ionally looking toward the abdomen ; when standing, 
the back is arched and attemps to pass manure and 
water are frequent ; pulse and respiration are frequent 
and sometimes the respiration is labored ; the eyes are 
injected red ; grinding of the teeth is a frequent 
symptom. 

Treatment : — The proper treatment is to attend to the 
food and condition of the mother, previous to parturi- 
tion. The diet should be soft and nutritious. Imme- 
diately after birth, the young animal should be fed the 
first milk the mother gives, as it contains purgativ^e ele- 
ments so necessary for the movement of the bowels. If 
the bowels do not mo-ve, remove all the foecal matter 
you can with the oiled finger, after which give frequent 
injections of warm water and castile soap, or injections 
of oil. Feed the mother on a soft, sloppy diet, to which 
may be added a mild physic. Should the 1)0wels fail to 
respond, give two ounces of castor oil, to which you may 
add a dessertspoonful of brandy with a little sweetened 
water; or you may give every two or three hours, two 
ounces of cod-liver oil with a little brandy and a little 
sweetened water. Keep the little creature warm with 
"bhuil^ets, rub the limbs w^ith dilute alcohol and bandngt'. 



IMAfiKHCEA IN COLTS. 418 

DIARRHOEA IN COLTS. 

This disease consists of a watery discharge from tlu; 
boAvels, differing somewhat both in color and ingredi- 
ents from the regular natural discharge. Quite often it 
will be strongly acid, as is demonstrated by its scalding 
the hair ofl" from the surrounding parts and emitting an 
olt'ensive odor. 

Causes: — It is produced from many causes; such as 
an altered condition of the mother's milk through some 
unknown or unforseen agency ; or by the mother eating 
too rich and highly nutritious food, or just the reverse 
— by being furnished with a scanty amount of poor, innu- 
tritions food, or bad, deficient, improper food : also from 
an excessive amount of lime salts in the food ; milk that 
is too rich in fatty constituents ; permanent stabling ; de- 
fective stabling ; chills or stable miasma. It is most fre- 
quently seen wliere the young creature is permanently 
housed, and seldom observed when out to pasture, thus 
indicating very strongly that the offending agent is in or 
about the stable, and is properly called a stable miasma. 
Another circumstance must be borne in mind, that is, 
wlien one young animal becomes badly affected, other 
colts or calves that are around the same stable, soon 
become affected, thus giving rise to the theory of con- 
tagion, or infectious nature of tlie complaint. 

Symptoms : — This disease generally makes its appear- 
ance quite suddenly and without any direct or assign- 
able cause, as the food and water as consumed by the 
mother, may not have been changed or altered in the 
least. ' But within eight or ten days after birth, the 
diarrhoea manifests itself in a violent form. ' The pass- 
ages are very w^atery in character, and have a sour, 
offensive smell. They are either yelloAv-tinted, whitish, 
or a grayisii green color, but in(»re often wliitish. The 



414 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

bowels move quite frequently and with some force, as 
the discharge will squirt some distance. Sometimes the 
animal will cease sucking, while others again, will 
nurse as though there was nothing the matter, except 
that they will switch and rub the tail, from the irrita- 
tion produced where the hair and sometimes the skin 
has been scalded off from the effects of the discharge 
from the bowels. In those cases where they cease to 
suck, they fail in strength very rapidly and are nearly 
always lying down. The eyes are sunk quite deeply 
within their orbits and ajDpear indifferent to surround- 
ing objects ; the hair looks dry and staring. There is 
neither bloating nor rumbling of the bowels, and the 
belly does not seem sore nor painful when pressed upon. 
There may be some straining, and as the end approaches, 
the little creature remains immovable, and dies without 
even a struggle. 

Treatment — As is the case with all other diseases, 
preventative measures are always better than curative 
treatment. Attention should be given to cleanliness 
and diet at all times, but more especially is this the 
case, wiien this disease has appeared in the stable 
before, or is now present ; and all pregnant stock should 
be removed from the stable, when this is the case, a 
month prior to producing their off-sx^ring, in order to 
render them secure. The stable or shed in which this 
disease has occurred, should be thoroughly washed and 
disinfected with carbolic acid, chloride of lime or sul- 
phuric acid, paying particular attention to the floor, 
where the infectious material may remain for montlis. 

It is good policy not to use the stable after disinfec- 
ting it, for the balance of the summer. The curative 
measures employed, are many and varied. Such as have 
proven beneficial, I will here insert. First, change the 
mother's diet. If fed too highly, reduce a little; or if 



DIARRIKEA IN COLTS. 415 

scantily fed, increase her rations, and if in season, do not 
fail to turn out to pasture. If the colt or calf is strong 
and lively, give an ounce of castor oil to clean the 
howels of any irritant that may be within them, to be 
followed with a couple of raw eggs, every four hours 
until six or eight eggs are given, and if this fails to 
check it, a few doses of white oak bark tea may be 
given. Or give, 

Prepared Chalk one ounce. 

Powdered Catechu four drachms. 

Powdered Opium one drachm. IMix. 

Make fifteen powders. Give one powder every 
three or four hours, in a little milk. Or better still, 
give — 

Powdered Opium ten grains. 

Tincture of Cardamon. . .ten drachms. 
Sulphuric Ether two ounces. Mix. 

Give dessertspoonful every four to six hours, in four 
to six ounces of linseed tea or gruel. 
Or, 

Laudanum one ounce. 

Tincture of Catechu one ounce. 

Sweet Spirits of Niter one ounce. 

Paregoric one ounce. Mix. 

Give dessertspoonful ever hour or two until relief. 

Burnt flour sometimes aids materially. Keep the 
patient warm and comfortable and if pains in the 
bowels are exhibited, apply cloths wrung out of hot 
water to which may be added some camomile tea or 
flowers, to the belly, which will greatly assist in easing 
the pains. 



416 DISEASES OF THE (iENEKATIVE ORGANS. 

PRESENTATIONS AND POSITION OF THE FOETUS. 

We have before spoken of normal parturition, where 
the foetus was presented in a natural position and the 
mother had power to expel it. We will now consider 
the various presentations and positions of the foetus 
during parturition. They should be well studied, as 
the different modes of delivery are of much importance 
practically, to the obstetrician. When we remember that 
during gestation the foetus in the womb assumes so many 
different positions, it is not surprising that in delivery 
so many different presentations occur. Notwithstand- 
ing, there is supposed to be some agency or influence, so 
induce the foetus to assume a natural position and pres- 
entation at delivery, this is not always the case ; and, 
instead of the foetus being in a favorable position, it 
frequently requires assistance to change the false posi- 
tion assumed by the young animal at the termination of 
gestation. 

What is understood by presentation, is that part of 
the foetus which presents itself first at the pelvic inlet, 
or that part of the foetus which the hand of the operator 
touches when making an examination as to position — 
which may be the head, forefeet, hocks, breast, abdo- 
men, sides, etc. Presentation may vary exceedingly, 
as any part of the foetus may occupy the space at the 
mouth of the womb. I will condense and simplify as 
far as possible, the description of these presentations 
and positions, in order not to confuse the mind of the 
reader. 

Presentations may be grouped in four classes, viz. : 
Anterior Presentation, when the head, neck, chest, fore- 
feet or forelimbs are presented ; Shoulder and Loin 
Presentation, when any portion of the body is presented, 
as the shoulder, withers, back, loins or haunches; 



ANTERIOR PRE8ENTATI05. 417 

Breast and Abdominal Presentation, in which the limb« 
are most frequently felt first, possibly all four feet, or 
only three of them, and sometimes only one ; Posterior 
Presentation, in which the breech or croup is facing the 
inlet and the presence of the limbs there only consti- 
tutes a different position. 

The different positions in which a foetus may be 
found with any of these presentations, are numerous. 
For instance, with anterior presentation, the withers of 
the foetus may rest against the spine of the mother, and 
the breast against the lower part of the pelvis ; or it 
may be just the reverse ; or the foetus may be lying on 
its right or left side, when its ribs would rest against 
the mother's spine and against the lower part of her 
pelvis, the breast facing either the right or left ileum, 
and the withers the opposite ; the head may deviate to 
the right or left; one limb may be retained, or crossed 
over the neck ; or both limbs may be retained, etc. 



ANTERIOR PRESENTATION. 

This is the only natural presentation of the foetus, 
and in this presentation, the different positions of the 
young creature frequently require the aid of art to 
complete the delivery. But when the presentation is 
natural and nature has brought about the necessary 
changes in the generative organs of the mother, delivery 
is comparatively easy and successful. In this position 
the foetus at the inlet should present the forefeet first, 
with the head lying upon or between them, the withers 
toward the spine of the mother, and the breast resting 
upon the pubes. When the foetus is found in this posi- 
tion, it should be left undisturbed for a time, as the 
contractions of the womb gradually increase in force. 



418 DISEASES OP THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

The abdominal muscles are now brought into play, the 
animal makes a few extra efl'orts, and, generally, the 
foetus is expelled. ** But, if the mother is laboring hard 
and the progress is very slow, man's intervention is 




ANTERIOR PRESENTATION. 

necessary. You should then seize the young animal by 
the forelegs, and, at each succeeding labor pain, use 
traction until the little creature is born. In using 
traction, always pull outward and downward towards 
the mother's heels. Immediately after the birth, tie 
up the navel about three inches from the abdomen. 
Then allow the mother to have care of her young. 



FORE LIMB CROSSED OVER THE NECK. 

It is not at all uncommon to find colts and calves in 
this position, and delivery very much retarded or 
incomplete Avitliout os^istaiice. Though I have no 
doubt that delivery has l)een completed in this position 



rORE LIMB CROSSED OVER THE NECK. 419 

without assistance, the cases where the mother has not 
been more or less hicerated, are exce[)tional. In this 
position, instead of the shoulders being lodged in 
the hollow space along the side of the neck, they are 
held back along the side of the chest, increasing the 
transverse diameter as it enters the pelvic inlet, instead 




FORE LIMB CROSSED OVER THE NECK. 

of diminishing it, thus retarding the delivery. But if 
the limbs are crossed over the neck up at the poll, it is 
still more dangerous. In all complications tending to 
retard delivery, the mother becomes more excited and the 
labor pains more violent and irregular. Then with the 
limbs crossed at the poll, the feet are pushed against 
the roof of the vagina, causing laceration of that part. 
Sometimes they are pushed through the roof of the 
vagina into the rectum, producing a rupture of the 
perineum. In the more favorable cases, the limbs are 



420 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

crossed far enough over the neck to allow the knee to 
become flexed, turning the feet downward. There is 
then but little danger of rupture of the perineum, but 
the labor is protracted and severe and certain to 
result in contusions of the vagina, to a greater or 
less extent. This position is frequently recognized 
before an examination is made. If the forefeet 
are seen pressing against the roof of the vagina, 
at the outlet, the probabilities are that both legs 
are crossed over the neck. If only one foot is 
seen pressing the roof of the vagina, or if both feet 
are observed on one side of the head, the one leg shorter 
than the other, only one leg is crossed. If only one 
leg is crossed, it may be placed in position without much 
difficulty and without the trouble of pressing the fcetus 
back into the uterine cavity. Seize the leg above the 
fetlock, raise it up and draw it to its proper side ; then 
place one hand on the head of the f(]etus and hold it 
firm, with the other hand extend the leg forcibly, when 
it will readily straighten out into position. Delivery 
may then take x)lace without help, or a little help with 
the head and limbs may be beneficial. When both fore 
limbs are crossed over the head, the case is more diffi- 
cult to handle. If the feet are visible, fasten a half 
inch rope to each separately, then force the foetus back 
Avithin the womb by pressingupon the head. Then the 
operator should place the feet to their proper sides, if 
jjossible. If he cannot do this, bring the ropes to their 
proper sides, and, while the operator holds the head 
back firmly, let an assistant pull the rope on one side 
until that limb is brought into position. " Then take 
hold of the other rope and fetch that into position. 
Then place the head straight in a line above and between 
the limbs, and delivery will be effected with but little 
help. 



]?ORELIMBS FLEXKD AT THE KNEES. 



42i 



FORELIMBS FLEXED AT THE KNEES. 

In this position, the diiliciilty, as a rule, is easily 
overcome. When the labor pains first commence, if the 
feet are not lifted high enough to enter the pelvic cav- 
ity, they become lodged against the lower border of the 
pubes; and, as la)jor- progresses, the head is forced 
onward, the feet being retained, the fore legs become 




I'ORELIMBS FLEXED AT THE KNEES. 

flexed at the knees and there they remain with the 
knees pressing up against the lower part of the neck. 
If an examination is made before labor has progressed 
any length of time, the nose and knees will be felt at 
the same time. But if labor has progressed any length 
of time, the head will be forced farther out. Then the 
operator, on exploring, will first come in contact with 
the head, for sometimes it is advanced in the pa'ssage 



422 DISEASES OF THE GtENERATIVE ORGANS. 

even as far as the outlet. The object now to be obtained 
is to straighten the forelegs, in order to complete the 
delivery, as the vertical diameter of the pelvis will not 
admit of delivery with the fore limbs beneath the 
breast. The operator will have but little difficulty, if 
called early enough, or before the head has passed any 
great distance into the vagina. If the head has made 
but little progress, the operator, upon examination, will 
feel the knees as readily as the head. While ascertain- 
ing the position of the legs, you will almost always find 
that one has greater liberty than the other, and, if 
seized by the fetlock, can be thrown easily into its 
natural position. Then seize the other leg just below 
the knee, raise it up with the lower part of the hand, 
while pressing backward with the upper part of the 
hand, and that leg can be brought easily into position. 
Use the right hand to liandle the left foreleg, and the 
left hand for the right foreleg. If the head has been 
forced well into the passage or presented beyond the 
outlet, the case will have to be handled differently. 
First fasten a small, well greased rope around the neck, 
then grasp the head, and, during the intervals between 
the labor pains, force it back into the womb. Then 
grasp the legs separately below the knees and raise 
them up, pressing backward at the knee and forward 
further down the leg, and in this way bring them into 
position. If they cannot be brought up in tliis manner, 
fasten a small rope around the fetlock of each leg, tlien 
bring them into position separately. The operator must 
take hold of the knee and force it back into the womb, 
while an assistant draws on the rope. In this manner, 
you will force the leg upward and outward, into the 
proper position. Then fetch the other limb up in the 
same manner. » If the head is presented beyond the out- 
let and the little creature is dead, the only thing to be 



FORELIMBS FLEXED AT THE KNEES^ 



423 



looked after is the preservation of the mother. First 
cut ofll' the head ck)se to the skull, then cut a hole 
through the skin and flesh about six inches hack 
on the top of the neck, and guide the knife so as to 
pierce between the first two bones of the neck. Then 
pass a small rope through the first bone of the neck and 




FORELIMBS COMPLETELY RETAINED — REVERSED POSITION. 

through the opening, and tie it. You then have a hold 
that will stand a pull. You must then force the foetus 
back into the womb, raise the forefeet as described, 
fetch the neck into position and deliver. 

If the colt or calf is lying upon its back, with the 
legs turned upward within the womb, it will be impos- 
sible to extract it in that position. It must be turned, 
which will prove a difficult task. In this position a 
great deal depends upon the judgment of the operator. 
If the mother is lying down, the hind parts should be 
raised higher than the fore quarters. Seize the foetus 
and fasten a small rope around each fore fetlock, and 



424 DISEASES OP THE GENERATIVE OiRGANS. 

auother around the jaws. Then, if the foetus is slightly 
turned to the left, let the operator pass his right hand 
under the left shoulder. Have the rope attached to the 
right leg, pass out on the left side of the head. Then, 
at each labor pain, draw tightly upon the rope, and with 
the hand under the shoulder, raise up with a rotary 
movement. In the course of time you will completely 
turn the little creature around to a proper position. 
Proceed in a manner precisely the reverse, if the foetus 
is turned to the right. When the proper position is 
gained, delivery will be easy. If the mother can be 
kept in a standing position, the fcetus can be much 
more easilv handled. 



FORELEGS COMPLETELY RETAINED. 

The complete retention of one or both of the fore- 
legs of the foetus within the womb, with head presenta- 
tion, is frequently met with in veterinary practice. 
With the mare the case is somewhat serious, the colt 
usually dying before delivery is completed. But with 
the cow the danger is not so great ; the calf, in all prob- 
ability will be delivered alive. The position is, no 
doubt, assumed during birth in the same manner as 
knee flexion. It is possible for the foetus to be delivered 
in this position, but it would have to be very small, and 
the vagina of the mother very large and roomy. This 
position is more frequently seen in the colt than in the 
calf, a fact probably due to its having much longer legs. 
In making an exploring examination, to determine the 
true position, the hand will touch first the head, some- 
times at the inlet, at others further outward within the 
vaginal passage. If both limbs are completely retained, 
the bead may be forced well into the vaginal canal or 



FORELEGS C051PLKTELY RETAINED. 



425 



even to the outlet, at eaeli labor pain, but retracting 
immediately after each pain ceases. Sometimes it is 
with the greatest difficulty that the forelegs are reached, 
owing to the vast dimensions of the womb, although the 
arm may be introduced without trouble. When the 




ONE FOKELIMB RETAINED. 

legs can be felt, they are usually lying immediately 
under the abdomen or beside the chest and flanks. 
The main ol^ject now, is to reach the legs with the 
hand and bring them forward to the knee posi- 
tion first. In order to do this, it may be necessary 
to force the liead back within the womb.' If so, first 
place a rope around the neck and lower jaw, then force 
it back within the womb during the intervals between 
the labor pains, '^ Then jiass a rope around the forearm 
of the colt or calf, pushing it Avell down toward the 
knee, and use gentle traction until you bring the knee 



426 DISEASES OF THE GEXERATIVE ORGANS. 

up to the passage. You may then fasten the rope to 
the fetlock, and have an assistant to use traction 
upward and outward, while you grasp the knee and 
force it upward and backward within the womb. Next 
bring the other leg into position, in the same way. In 
this manner the forelegs are brought into proper posi- 
tion. Then you should find the head and place the hand 




FORELIMBS COMPLETELY RETAINED. 

under the nose and lower jaw, and have an assistant 
pull upon the rope which was fixed to the jaw, until the 
head is brought into position, but little force may be 
required after this to complete the delivery. If the 
head presents beyond the outlet and the foetus is dead, 
you should remove the head before forcing it back 
within the womb, (this operation is described under the 
head of "Forelegs Flexed at the Knee.") Then pro- 
ceed as before described. Ii^deed it is sometimes nee- 



DOWNWARD Deviation of the head. 427 

essary to decapitate a living foetus, in order to save the 
motlier. To place a rope around the neck in this posi- 
tion and apply force without placing the foetus in posi- 
tion, is brutal, and the law for the prevention of cruelty 
to animals, should be rigidly enforced in such cases. 



DOWNWARD DEVIATION OF THE HEAD. 

Downward deviation of the head, may exist from 
mere flexion of the head on the first bone of the neck, 




DOWNWARD DEVIATION OF 

the nose being caught on the lower bone of the 
pelvic inlet. But when the downward deviation is 
great, the upper part of the head comes in contact with 
the lower border of the inlet and is forced down 



428 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

beneath the chest and abdomen. The cause usually, 
is premature rupture of the foetal membranes, and the 
nose or head catching on the pelvic border as the foetus 
is entering the inlet. If the feet are in a proper posi- 
tion and the nose catches on the lower border of the 
inlet, the contractions of the womb will force the upper 
part of the head and neck into the genital passage, 
along with the feet. Then the operator, on passing the 
hand to explore matters, will come in contact first with 
the feet and next with the top of the head. During the 
intervals of labor, he should press backward and 
upward against the top of tlie head ; then pass the hand 
down under the nose, seize the lower jaw and raise 
upward and outward. The head will be easily thrown 
into the natural position, when delivery may be com- 
pleted in the usual way. But, if the pains have forced 
the head and neck outward, so that they are firmly 
wedged in the passage, take a crotch and place it 
against the shoulder, and force the foetus back within 
the womb a distance sufiicient to admit of raising the 
nose and placing the head in a proper position, to allow 
a natural birth. This may take some time, but can be 
accomplished. 

When the top of the head rests against the lower 
border of the inlet the case is a little more diflicult, but 
can be brought into position by passing the hand down to 
the nose- and fastening a rope to the upper jaw. Then 
let the operator press backward on the side of the neck 
and an assistant draw upward and outward on the rope, 
and most frequently the head will be brought into posi- 
tion. But, if labor has been progressing some time and 
some wise fool has been pulling at the legs, the head 
will be forced down underneath the chest and, possibly 
as far back as the abdomen. You then have one of the 
nu)st critical cases to deal with. Indeed, so critical is 



LATERAL DEVIATION OP THE HEAD, ETC. 



429 



the case, you may consider yourself extremely fortunate 
should you complete a delivery and save the life of the 
mother. You may take a couj)le of blunt crotches, and 
])hice them against the shoulders of the foetus and push 
it back within the womb. If you succeed in this, you 
may reach the head, wliich you may fasten with cords, 
as before described, and raise it up. If you fail in this, 
you may return the forelimbs and try to turn the foetus 
around and deliver the hind feet first. Failing in this, 
you may cut otf the head, when you feel the neck, and 
then deliver; or, amputate the legs at the shoulder and 
then deliver. Use plenty of fresh lard and handle the 
knife carefully. 



LATERAL DEVIATION OF THE HEAD TO THE RIGHT OR 

LEFT. 

In this position, the head is carried either to the 
right or left side of the foetus, and the forelegs pre- 
sented either in the genital passage or at the outlet. It 




LATERAL DEVIATION OF THE HEAD TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT IN 
AN UPWARD POSITION. 

is a very difficult case to handle. It may be caused by 
uterine contraction taking place too strongly, before the 



430 



DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 



mouth of the womb is thorouglily dilated. If the nose 
is not in a straight line with the opening, when partially 
dilated, the forefeet may pass through and as t!ie 
uterine contractions increase in force, the liead is forced 
off to one side. \Sometimes it rests baciv on the 
ehoulders, at others down along the back or sides, and 




LATERAL DEVIATION OF THE HEAD TO RIGHT OR LEFT — 
DOWNWARD POSITION. 

it may be down by the flanks of the mother. I have 
delivered two cases when the deviation was to the right 
side and the colts were wry-necked and could not be 
straightened after delivery. One was born dead and 
the other, to my knowledge, lived for two years with a 
crooked neck. It was then sold and taken out of the 
neighborhood. As a rule, it is not hard to distinguish 
this position of a colt or calf. The forelegs will be pre- 
eented in the genital canal, but birth is retarded and on 



LATERAL DEVIATION OP THE HEAD, ETC. 



431 



the side to which the head is turned, the leg will appear 
shorter than the other. On being passed beyond these, 
the hand comes in contact with a bulky mass occupying 
the whole space of the inlet, rendering access to the 
uterine cavity difficult. Upon examination this will be 
found to be the neck; and, by tracing it up, the ears, 




LATERAL DEVIATION OF THE HEAD TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT. 

eyes and frequently the nose can be felt, — if a calf. 
But, if a colt, it is seldom that the nose can be felt if 
the uterine contractions have continued for any length 
of time. The colt's head will be pushed back toward 
the chest, abdomen or flanks, when it scarcely can be 
reached. This position is not only frequent but serious, 
as it is impossible for birth to occur without assistance, 
and this requires strength, perseverance and ingenuity. 
The object now is to get hold of the head and bring it 
into a favorable position, and then complete the 



432 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGAKS. 

delivery. But tliis cannot be done ve'-y easily, especi 
ally when the head is lying along the abdomen or down 
in the flank and beyond reach of the operator. If the 
head can be felt by the hand, you should catch hold of 
the cheeks, by putting your hand into its mouth, and 
raise it into position. Failing in this, fasten a rope 
around the lower jaw, then secure the legs with ropes 
and push- the foetus back into the womb. Then have an 
assistant pull on the rope attached to the jaw, while the 
operator pushes inward on the neck just at the bend. The 
head will readily be brought into the vaginal passage. 
Then draw up the feet and complete delivery. In case 
the feet present and the head cannot be reached by the 
operator, first fasten small ropes to the fore fetlocks. 
Then return the legs to the womb, pressing them to the 
opposite side from that to which the head is lient. 
Then if the head is turned to the right, press against the 
left shoulder, and vice versa if it is turned to the left. 
With the hand or a crotch, you can fasten a rope around 
the neck. Pass the rope along the neck as near the 
head as possible, then twist the rope until it presses 
deeply into the flesh of the neck, care being taken not 
to entangle the membranes in the rope. Then press 
inward on the shoulder and draw outwards and sideways 
on the neck and you will draw the head backward 
toward the natural position. Continue in this until you 
reach the head, when you should fasten the rope to the 
head or lower jaw, after which you can easily bring it 
into position. Then draw up the feet and complete 
the delivery. ^ Sometimes an advantage is gained by 
securing the legs with cords, then placing a crotch 
against the neck or upper part of the chest, and forcing 
the foetus liack into the Avomb, while the operator 
fastens a blunt hook into the eye or mouth of the foetus 
and uses outward traction on the head. But if the 



DEVIATION OF THE HEAD UPWARD AND BAC'KWAKO. 433 

mouth can be reached, I would prefer catchiiii;: tlie 
liohl there. If the fa^tus is dead and the membranes 
are dry, use copious injections of warm water. Perse- 
verance and good judgment will nearly always effect a 
delivery in this position. Let the knife for dissecting 
purposes, be the very last resort. 



DEVIATION OF THE HEAD UPWARD AND BACKWARD. 

In this position, the head will be found more or lesi 
•xtended idong tlie back, or slightly deviated to on« 



DEVIATION OF THE HEAD UPWARD AND BACKWARD. 

side, with the inferior border of the lower jaw resting 
against the mother's back. ' In this position the head 
may be forced through the womb into the rectum, caus- 
ing rupture of the perineum, and the foetus may be 



434 DISEASES OF TUE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

delivered in that way. On examination, the forefeet 
will first be felt, possibly well advanced into the vagina, 
and beyond them at the inlet, tlie hand meets the chest 
and, above, the lower part of the neck whicli, if traced 
backward, will leaa to the head more or less l)ack on 
the withers and loins or very sliiilitly inclined to one 
side, the lower jaw facing the back of the mother. In 
order to place the head in a natural position, it is nec- 
essary to force the fcetiis back within the woml) by 
pressing the chest downward. Should the head not drop 
down into the natural position, introduce the hand and 
seize the head by the mouth or lower jaw, and pull it 
downward, slightly sideward and outward, into the 
natural passage. If this cannot be done with the hand, 
place a small rope around the lower jaw and have an 
assistant pull, while the operator guides the head with 
his hand until it is brought into the natural passage, 
when delivery will be completed easily. This is not a 
difficult position and can be rectified with ease and 
safety. 



HIND LEG DEVIATION— ANTERIOR PRESENTATION. 

In this position, the operator may consider the case a 
natural presentation, which it is, as far as the head and 
forefeet are concerned. Birth may*be proceeding favor- 
al»ly, the forelegs, head and body being normal and in a 
natural position, protruding well beyond the outlet; 
when, suddenly, the foetus becomes locked and wedged 
within the passage, notwithstanding thev mother 
increases her efforts at straining; and powerful traction 
upon the foetus, fails to bring it beyond a certain point. 

The operator should pass his hand underneath the 
abdomen of the f(Ptus, along the genital passage, until 
lie reaches the inlet, where he will find the obstruction. 



HIXP LEG DEVIATION ANTERIOR PrlKSENTATlUN. 435 

Here he may find the thighs of the foetus turned (>u - 
^vard from its flanks, forming too broad a surface u> 
pr.ss through tlie genital canaL Sometimes he will timl 
tl:e hind legs flexed forward, underneath the belly of the 
fijetiis, and the feet or fetlocks caught under the brim of 
the pelvis at the inlet, so that to deliver ])y force, Avould 
cause the hind legs of the foetus to force their way 
through the .^issues into the abdominal cavity of the 
inotlier, before delivery could be completed : and this 
might cause the death of the moliier and oir-sj)ring. 




HIND LIIMB DEVIATION — ANTERIOR PRESENTATION. 

A safe delivery can be effected only by the proper 
adjustment of the hind legs. This is all the more 
diflicult, when the foetus is well advanced in the 
passage and much traction has been employed. If, 
upon examination, the thighs are extended outward 
from the flanks of the foetus, it should be forced 
back within the womb and the limbs drawn as 
closely together as possible, with the hand, if this can- 
not be done, you may take a half-inch rope, well 
greased, and fasten it around the body of the foetus with 
ft running noose. Then the operator should work the 



436 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

rope just beyond the rump of the foetus, or midway 
between the rump and the hocks. He must hold it 
there, while an assistant draws tightly on the rope and 
forces the thighs together. The delivery can then be 
completed. If, however, the foetus cannot be forced back 
into the womb to adjust the thighs, cut it off close up to 
the mother; then force the remainder back within the 
womb and deliver the hind feet first. But, if upon 
examination, the hind feet or fetlocks are found to be 
caught below the brim of the pelvis at the inlet, you 
should pass your hand between the belly of the foetus 
and the genital canal, until you come in contact with 
the feet or fetlocks. Then pass the hand with the 
palmer surface against the feet or fetlocks, and extend 
it backward and inward as far as the arm will reach, 
when traction may be applied to the foetus and delivery 
completed. 



DEVIATION OF THE HIND LEGS INTO THE GENITAL 

CANAL— THE ANTERIOR PART OF THE 

BODY PRESENTING. 

In this position we have a serious case to deal with. 
Generally, the principal object is to save the life of the 
mother. The foetus generally is dead or in a dying 
condition, before help is thought necessary to complete 
the delivery. Outward appearances may reveal nothing 
but a natural presentation, — the forefeet and head being 
presented and sometimes so well advanced, that part of 
the chest will be presented to view beyond the outlet, 
when progress ceases, notwithstanding the violeut 
efforts of the mother are increased and forcible traction 
has been used. The operator now has great difficulty to 
ascertain the cause of the delay, the difficulty dei)eii(liiig 
upon the size of the fcetus and the amount of s[>ace in 



DEVIATION OF THE HIND LEGS, ETC. 



337 



the genital canal occupied by it. The hand should be 
introduced to ascertain the cause of delay, which 
may be very difficult. When the feet are found, 
they should be examined to make certain they are 
the hind ones. Sometimes the hind legs are well 
advanced in the passage, even as far as the hocks ; but 




VLL OF THK hUlli^ EN'i'EKlN(i TilE PASSAGE, THE ANTERIOR 
PART OF THE BODY PRESENTING. 

this depends greatly upon the size of the foetus and the 
capacity of the mother. It is impossible to extract the 
foetus until this position is rectified, no matter what 
amount of force may be used ; and violent force is cer- 
tain to injure the mother. It is, therefore, necessary 
to ascertain the exact state of affairs before using any 
force. As to saving the life of the foetus, should it be 
living, your decision generally must be unfavorable. In 
a great majority of cases the young animal, if not 
already dead, must be sacrificed to save the life of the 
mother. 



438 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS, 

If attention is given to the mother before the f(Ptus 
has advanced far into the passage, and the hind feet are 
found mingled with the forefeet, the operator will have 
little difficulty in pushing them back to the lower 
border of the pelvis. Then push them downward and in- 
ward and immediately after grasp the forefeet and head 
and hasten the delivery, which can be done successfully. 
Or the operator may hold the hind feet back, while an 
assistant extracts the foetus. But if the foetus is well 
advanced, the forelegs, head and chest being beyond 
the outlet, you may try and force it back within the 
womb until you can reach the hind feet. Then, if pos- 
sible, push them back within the womb, either with 
the hand or with a crotch. Then, the head and forelegs 
being in good position, delivery can be effected easily. 
When the fcjetus has advanced so far and is very large, 
it is very seldom possible to force it back into the womb 
or even to introduce the hand beside it. The only 
recourse left then, is to cut the foetus off close up to the 
mother; then force the remainder back with/in the 
womb, turn it around and deliver the hind feet first. 



POSTERIOR PRESENTATION. 

In posterior presentation, as in anterior presenta- 
tion, the fcetus may assume several positions, in 
only one of which, a spontaneous and natural de- 
livery can result. This is when the back of the 
foetus is next to the back of the mother, the abdo- 
men next to the lower part of the pelvis and the 
thighs occupying the horizontal diameter of the 
genital "canal, the hind legs being fully extended 
outward and entering the inlet, first gradually di- 
lating the mouth of the womb. Birth in this position 
witliout assistance, is ujore frequent with cows than 



POSTERIOR PRESENTATION. 



439 



with mares, and the calves are generally alive. With 
the mare, parturition is more prolonged and laborious, 
and the foal quickly dies after rupture of the mem- 
branes, or is suffocated immediately after birth for want 
of attention. Colts that are foaled in this position, 
should be raised by the hind legs until the head is clear 
o-ti' from the ground, to allow the escape of any fluid 
tiiat may be in tlie wind-pipe. I have seen as much as 




POSTERIOR PRESENTATION, OR HIND FEET PRESENTATION. 

a pint escape, and the little animal begin to breathe 
and do well. When colts are foaled with an anterior 
presentation, the head and neck hang down so that if 
any fluids have accumulated in the wind-pipe, they 
escape spontaneously. With the posterior position, it 
is just the reverse, hence the necessity of raising the 
hind quarters and allowing the fluid to escape. The 
foal sometimes perishes quickly after rupture of the 
membranes. It is therefore necessary, in a posterior 



440 



DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 



preaentation, when everything is favorable, to hasten 
the delivery to save the life of the colt. 

In the posterior reversed position, when the hind 
feet are presented with the foetus lying- on its back 
within the mother, its belly against the back of the 
mother, and its back upon the lower bone of the pelvis, 
there is danger ahead and trouble to be anticipated. As 
a consequence of this reversed position, the hind legs 
(which enter the passage first) arc (lircctcd upward aiid 




^'3jl5«iS?5%^.; 




HOCK PRESENTATION — REVERSED POSITION. 

outward, and are tlie parts first met by the hand in 
making an examination. The operator can make no 
mistake, if he notices whether the back or front of the 
hind leg is upi)crmost. This can be told easily from the 
shape of the feet or the position of the liocks, tlie i)oint 
of the latter l)eing downward, and tlie bend upward in 
the same direction as the wall of the hoof. Whereas, 
the ])end of the knee is in tlie same direction as the solo 
of the foot. The obstacle to birtli, lies in the buttocks 



POSTKUIOR PUESKNTATION. 441 

resting iiiiainst the lower border of the pelvis, whilsl 
the legs are extended upward towards the mother's 
Lack and, to a certain extent held rigid. There is 
■danger of lacerating the perineum; or the feet may be 
pushed through into the rectum, causing rupture of the 
perineum. Besides this, the body of the foetus itself 
forms a curve exactly opposite to that of the genital 
canal, so that it cannot easily accommodate itself to the 
bony canal through which it must pass. From these 
circumstances, the position not only is unfavorable to 
birth, but must be remedied, or serious accidents may 
follow. 

When the foetus is found in this position, the oper- 
j\tor must take great care in conducting the feet through 
the genital canal, to ijrevent lacerations of the peri- 
neum. Sometimes, in order to bring the feet beyond 
the outlet, it is necessary to pass the hand and raise the 
hocks above the brim of the pelvis. As soon as the feet 
appear beyond the outlet, they should be secured with 
ropes, and, while an assistant seizes the legs and 
attempts to turn the foetus on its belly, the operator 
ehould pass his hand under its rump and assist in turn- 
ing it over so that its back rests against the mother's 
back. When this position is gained, extract the foetus, 
— if necessary, by forcible traction. If the foetus is 
small, or if the rump has passed into the genital pas- 
sage it sliould be drawn far enough into the passage 
to have tlie rumi) beyond the outlet; then twist it 
half way round, or until its back is uppermost, and com- 
plete the delivery.' If the foetus be a colt, delivery 
must be completed within a half hour; otherwise it is 
likely to die before entirely born. If it be a calf, it 
jiiav live for several hours and be born alive. 



442 UiSiiACJES OF THE GENKKATIVE ORGANS. 

HOCK PRESENTATION. 

This presentation is lisible to happen when there is 
a posterior presentation, and the womb contraction& 
force the tetus toward the inlet, })efore the hind legs 
are completely extended. Consequently, the back part 
of the legs below the hocks, conies in contact with the 
brim of the pelvis. The croup, being above, naturally 
forces the legs into a cramped position. The labor 




HOCK PRESEKTATION. 

pains continuing, the croup has a tendency to descend 
and, with the hocks, to enter the pelvic inlet. The legs 
now being thoroughly Hexed, the croup pressing upon 
them tliey become jammed tightly in the inlet, forming 
too large a mass to advance further. Therefore labor is 
suspended and the animal becomes exhausted by con- 
tinuous straining. 

On making an examination in hock presentation^ 
the point of the hock is always the lirst part encoun- 



HOCK PRESENTATION. 443 

tered ; but it may be found at different points. Some- 
times it is well advanced in the inlet, tlie croup 
and body of the foetus being still within the womb. In 
other cases, the body and croup are in the inlet and thor- 
oughly wedged in the passage. As a rule, if the mother 
has run the full period of gestation, birth cannot take 
place until the deviation has been rectified; and until 




HOCK PRESENTATION — HOCKS CORDED. 

this has been done, a forcible attempt at delivery is 
likely to take the life of the mother. Therefore it is 
necessary to place the hind legs in a favorable position, 
by extending them in the genital passage. This is more 
easily done with the calf than with the colt, owing to 
the shortness of the legs of the former. If the offspring 
be very small and the mother large and roomy in tlie 
genital canal, the foetus may be delivered in this posi- 



444 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS, 

tion, by extending its legs forward underneath its abdo- 
men. But this would be a very exceptional case. 

The best mode of completing delivery, is to so adjust 
the foetus that the hind legs are completely extended 
outward. This is quite easily accomplished, if an exam- 
ination be made before the foetus has entered the pelvic 
inlet, or, at the most, the points of the hocks, and rais- 
ing them upward, at the same time pressing inward, 
the operator can draw the feet into the pelvic inlet. 
Or, if the operator has secured the feet by ropes previous 
to handling the hocks, as he raises and forces them 
inward an assistant can pull on the ropes and bring the 
feet outward into tlie genital canal, and can then com- 
plete the birth with ease. But at a later period, when 
labor is more advanced and the croup is well advanced 
or wedged in the inlet along with the hocks, the case is 
more troublesome. First, fasten a rope around each 
hock separately ; then apply pressure to the croup, forc- 
ing it inward and upward until you force it within the 
womb, or far enough inward to secure the feet with 
ropes. Then take hold of the hocks and press upward 
and inward, when an assistant may draw upward and 
outward on the ropes and bring the feet into position. 

If there is much trouble in forcing the foetus back 
and it is known to be dead, or if it must be sacrificed to 
save the mother, ropes may be fastened to the hind legs 
and the hocks drawn as near the outlet as possible. 
Then amputate the legs at the hocks, remove the 
detached parts, and the remainder is easily brought 
into position for delivery. If the mother persists in 
lying, you may elevate her liind quarters by packing 
straw under her. If thought necessary, place the hob- 
1)les on the hind feet, then place a rope over a high beam 
and draw up the hind parts. This sometimes, will 
greatly lesson the danger to the operator and assist him 
in extracting the f(Ptus. 



THIGH AND CROUP PRESENTATIONS. 



446 



THIGH AND CROUP PRESENTATIONS. 

The cause of tliis iiKiI-])osition, is tlie same as that 
operatiui;- in the liock presentation. It occurs frequently 
with both mares and cows. When the thigh and croup 
are presented and the leg;s are flexed slightly forward, 
the mass is too large to enter the pelvic inlet. But, as 
labor progresses, the crouj) is forced into tlic i)clvic 




THIGH AND CROUP PRESENTATION. 

inlet, while the thighs are forced downward and the legs 
forward until the latter are i)ressed up against the 
abdomen. In this position birth is possible ; but the 
foetus must be very small and the pelvis of the mother 
large and well-formed. In this position, upon examina- 
tion, the hand first encounters the tail and buttocks 
of the foetus, then the thighs, and possibly the iiocks. 
But if labor is somewhat advanced, the legs will be 



44H DISEASES OP THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

])res8ed up along the abdomen, when the liocks will be 
Iteyond the reach. The croup and luiunch may have 
passed some distance into the pelvic inlet, yet it is very 
unusual for any part of the foetus, except the tail, to be 
discernible externally, no matter how long labor may 
have been progressing. This mal-position is the most 
dillicult encountered in veterinary obstetrics. Some- 
times the mother perishes without being delivered. 
"Though a living calf sometimes is delivered in this posi- 




THIGH AND CEOUP PRESENTATION — THE HOCK CORDED. 

tion, a living foal is very rarely obtained ; and only too 
often, the mare dies after the foal has been taken away. 
The chance of saving either mother or offspring, depends 
greatly upon the length of time the mother has been in 
labor, and the amount of injury or irritation sus- 
tained by the genital organs through improper hand- 
ling. The chances are lessened if it be the lirst 
foal or calf, or if the fc^tus be unusually large. 
To complete birth, it is necessary to extend the 



THIGH AND CROUP PRESENTATIONS. 



447 



limbs of the foetus backward, as in ordinary breech 
presentation, the hind feet first so that the mother's 
efforts with slight assistance from tlie operator, will 
effect a delivery. This will prove a difficult task. 
Though in some instances, where labor has not 
advanced very far and the foetus is still in the 
uterine cavity and can be moved around so that the 
feet can be reached and brougiit into the genital pass- 
age, it is not very difficult. When labor has progressed 
far enough to force the croup into the pelvic inlet, 
delivery will be completed only by hard work and per- 
>everance. If possible, place a small roi)e around (>ach 




THIGH AND CROUP PRESENTATION — THE THIGHS CORDED. 

leg separately, as low down as the hock. Then take a 
repeller, or use the hand, placing it against the croup, 
and force it inward, the assistant drawing upward and 
outward upon the hock. Continue in this way until 
you have a hock presentation. Then fasten ropes to the 
fetlocks, and while the operator seizes the hock and 
presses upward and inward, the assistant may draw 
upward and outward on the fetlocks, until they are 
brouglit into the ])assage, when the delivery may be 
completed. But if the croup and thighs are compleleiy 



448 DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE OKCiAXS. 

AvtMiji'ed in the genital passage, and can not l)e moved, 
either inward or outward, which sometimes is tlie case, 
no recourse but embryotomy is left. This is a very 
tedious manner of completing delivery. Take a guarded 
knife and cut through the skin and muscles until you 
come to the hip joint. Then detach that limb and 
remove the other in tlie same manner, after which you 
can insert hooks in the cavity of the hip-joint and 
extract. Or, place a rope completely around the body 
of the f(.Btus and extract. Or, sever the muscles from 
the bones of the haunch as much as possible, then fasten 
a hook into the bones and extract them. After you 
have severed the haunch bones, remove the bowels. 
Then fasten a roxje to the remaining skin and complete 
delivery. 



TRANSVERSE PRESENTATION. 

The fcjetus is in a transverse position when, upon 
examination, the hand of the operator first encounters 
the shoulders, withers, sides, tianks, haunches, loins, 
back, breast, belly or all of the limbs collected together. 
The possibility of the fcjetus assuming a transverse 
position within the womb, is by some strongly disputed, 
but entirely without reason, because the womb is a 
soft, yielding membraneous sack, capable of assuming 
almost any position; so it readily appears that its 
transverse diameter may be increased at the expense of 
its length. Though transverse presentation sometimes 
is observed, it is not nearly so common as an anterior or 
posterior presentation. Still it is quite as necessary 
tliat the operator should understand something of this 
presentation, as with it, birth is impossible when unas- 
sisted. No matter whether tlie f(i4us presents in the 
ti'ansverse vertical or transverse liorizontal position. 



SHOULDEH AND LOIN PRESENTATION. 



449 



version must be accomplished in order to change it to 
either an anterior or posterior presentation. For in one 
of these ways only, can tlie iVetns be brought into the 
pelvic inlet and delivery be etlected. This presentation 




TKANSVKKt^E ^RESE^"TATION. 

occurs more frequently in tlie uuu'e than in the cow, 
l)erhai)s, owing; to the stronger contractions of the 
womb of the former not allowing proper adjustment of 
the foetus, should it not be in a position exactly favor- 
able at the commencement of labor. 



SHOULDER AND LOIN PRESENTATION. 

When labor has continued for some time with little 
or no progress, and upon examination, the hand of the 
operator comes in contact with the shoulder and loins, 
lie knows that he has to deal with a transverse presen- 
tation. If labor has lasted some time, the straining has 
been energetic and the waters have escaped, it some- 
times is a difficult matter to decide what part of the 
fietus tlie liand encounters !ir«t. There is first felt a 
more or less rounded surface, that lias no special char- 



450 



DI8EA8P]S OF THE GENEEATIVE ORGANS. 



acteristic by which it may be recognized. The hand 
should then be introduced farther into the womb and 
search should be made for some part of the foetus that 
can be recognized. Then study the i)()sition of the 
youug creature in the womb. The presentation having 
been recognized, the position must be determined by 
ascertaining the direction in which the head lies. AVith 
the foal, this is accomplished by feeliuii; for the mane 
and tracing it as far as the arm can reacli. It may lie in 




SHOULDER AND LOIN PRESENTATION. 

the right or left tlank of the mother, or up along her 
back, or down toward the iloor of her belly, the legs 
assuming different positions in a direction opposite to 
the head; although sometimes one leg is found crossed 
over the neck. To learn the exact position, is abso- 
lutely necessary, before venturing upon any attempt at 
extraction, as in nearly every case, the presentation is a 
ditticult one and requires all the skill ar.d judgment of 
the operator to rectify it. But if lal)or has not con- 
tinued any length of time before the operator discovers 



SHOULDER AND LOIX PKESENTATION. 



451 



the presentation, and if the membranes are soft and 
yielding from the natural lliiids, the position, generally, 
is easily converted into an aiiterior or posterior presen- 
tation, and a living fcjetus is delivered. If labor has con- 
tinued for some time and tlie p;itient is a mare, you 
may depend upon it, the foal will be dead. But with 
the c<)v>', a living calf may be delivered — tiie tenacity of 
life and the power of endurance l3eing wonderful. The 




SliOn.DKR AND LOJX PIJESENTATIOX. 

principal object is to convert the transverse presenta- 
tion into either an anterior or a posterior presentation, 
for only in this way, can delivery be eil'ected. If the 
foetus lies or can be moved so that the head and foreh <is 
are most convenient and can with the least diificulty be 
brought into the pelvic inlet, the position should be 
converted into an anterior presentation. If the hind legs 
are most accessible and can be brought into the inlet 
with less difliculty, convert the position into a posterior 
presentation. But to do either, is generally a dithcult 
task, as the presentation offers nothing to take hold of 



452 DISEASES OF THE GEXEEATIVE ORGANS. 

advantageously, or to wliich ropes could be attached. 
If labor has progresser for some time and the mem- 
branes are dry, before atteniptinii; to turn the foetus, it 
is a good treatment to inject warn> Avater into the 
womb, to moisten the membranes, whicii will greatly 
aid the operator in his efforts at version. The foetus 
must not be pushed directly forward into the womb, 
but rather obliquely and in a direction opposite to that 
of the parts we wish to bring into the inlet. If the 
mother be lying down, tlie operator will find it greatly 
to his advantage to raise her hind quarters very high. 
He should be persistent in his work, use frequent injec- 
tions of warm water, and, in the great majority of cases, 
the fi'Btus will glide around the inner surface of the 
womb until a convenient part presents itself. Then the 
forelegs and head, if they are the parts sought, or the 
hind legs, are brought into the genital canal by the hand 
or by ropes, when slight traction will complete the 
delivery. When all these maneuvers have failed, 
embryotomy should be x>erformed in such a manner as 
the operator deems most advantageous. At the best it 
will be a difficult, tedious and laborious task, seldom 
attended with satisfactory results. The mother gener- 
ally perishes, either during the operation or shortly 
afterward. 



BREAST AND ABDOMINAL PRESENTATION. 

This presentation is quite common in both mares and 
cows, but more frequently" occurs in the former. Gen- 
erally the foetus is lying on its side with its legs' Hexed, 
or extended, or presented at the inlet, or engaged in the 
passage. There is no difficulty in discovering and rec- 
ognizing this position. As the op?rator passes the hand 
to explore the parts, it first eur' un'ers the feet — usually 



BRKAST AND ABD0>(1NAL PRESENTATION. 453 

all four of them. They may be within the woiiil), or one 
or more of them engaged in the passage. In tlie major- 
ity of cases, either the hind parts or fore quarters are 
near the passage, a condition recognized by the legs of 
that part being further advanced than those of the 
other. The position must now be ascertained, which 
can l)e done readily if the head can be felt. But this, 
generally, is beyond reach and the position can be 




BREAST AND ABD0>[1NAL PRESENTATION. 

determined only by a careful examination of the limbs. 
In this we must distinguisli between the hind legs and 
forelegs, as these alone can show the direction of the 
head. To do this, the operator should remember that 
the hind leg Ilexes in the direction of the wall of 
the foot, whereas the knee flexes in the direction 
of the sole of the foot. The hock can also be 
recognized by its flatness. It must be remembered 
that, in this presentation, the forelegs and hind legs 
are across each other, when engaged in the genital 
passage. The hind legs, crossing the forelegs, are 
pointing towards the anterior part of the body of the 



454 



DISEASES OF THE GEXERATIVE ORGANS. 



foetus; while the forelegs, crossing the hind legs, point 
toward the posterior part of the f(ptus. This is not a 
very serious presentation, as a rule. The gravity of the 
case depends somewhat upon the length of time labor 
has continued. As it is impossible for birth to occur 
spontaneously, while the foetus is in this position, if the 
mother has not received the necessary aid for some 




BEEA8T AND ABDOMINAL PRESENTATION. 

time after the commencement of labor, her continued 
straining may not only cause the death of the colt, but 
the mother's death, from prostration. When the legs 
have been distinguished, fasten ropes around the ones 
you wish to extract first. Generally the operator will 
find it most advantageous to convert the position into a 
posterior presentation and deliver the hind feet first. 
If only one hind foot and one forefoot are engaged in 
the passage, fasten a roxje around the one hind foot and 



BREAST AND ABDOJIINaL PRESENTATION. 465 

search for the other one ; secure it and bring it into the 
passage. Then return the foreleg to the womb, as far in 
as possible, apply traction and deliver. But if all four 
legs are engaged in the passage, fasten ropes to the hind 
feet; tlien return the forefeet as far as possible within 
the wonil). iSometimes this is more easily and more 
advantageously accomplished by flexing the forelegs at 
the knee, until the foot rests against the elbow; then 
force it within the womb in a downward direction, 
while the assistant draws upon the hind feet. The 
fcetus will straighten out generally and birth will be 
completed. Even if the head be engaged along with 
all four legs in the passage, I would recommend return- 
ing it to the womb in a downward direction along with 
the forelegs, and that delivery be made with the hind 
feet tirst. When the ftetus is partially delivered, say 
the hind legs, croup and hips are without or beyond the 
outlet, the operator should pass his hand between the 
belly of the foetus and tiie floor of the genital canal, to 
ascertain whether tlie forelegs have become cramped or 
fastened within the inlet too soon. If so, straighten 
them by pushing them inward, for if not straightened, 
serious results might follow. In delivering the f(jetus 
with a posterior presentation — that is the hind feet 
first — the back of the foetus should be against tlie back 
of the mother. 

But in a breast and abdominal presentation, if it is 
found impossible to force the foetus back into the womb 
and the foetus is dead, there should be no hesitation 
about resorting to embryotomy. The best way to com- 
mence, is to cut off the forelegs at the knees or elbows 
and remove them; the lower part of the legs being 
removed, the remainder of the foetus can be readily 
pushed back into the womb, and by applying traction to 
the hind legs, delivery can be effected. 



456 



DISK\'-r:S OF THE GENERATIVE ORGANS. 



TWIN FOETUS— IN DIFFERENT PRESENTATIONS. . 

With mares and cows it is not an uncommon occur- 
rence for them to bring forth twins, though it is rarely, 
indeed, that assistance is needed to complete delivery. 
Usually, when the mot'ner is carrying twins, either they 
are expelled before the full period of gestation is com- 
pleted, or each is much smaller than if slie were carry- 
ing only one. Indeed, birtli usually is much easier* with 




TWINS IN DIFFKRENT POSITION. 

a twin pregnancy than with only one. When the most 
advanced foetus is expelled, a variable period elapse* 
before the second birtli. During the interval the mother 
generally is uneasy and pays little or no attention to 
the one already born, but nuinifests a peculiar anxiety, 
which is a good indication that delivery is not complete. 
But when the second foetus is born, the mother generally 
turns her attention to her otl'spring. This is the general 



TWIN FOETUS, ETC. 



457 



order of twin births. But it is not always so fortunate. 
In some cases, after the first one is born, a long interval 
occurs before the birth of the second one, which is 
usually fatal to its existence. This suspension of labor 
in twin birth is generally due to a mal-position of the 
foetus. Difficult paturition from this cause also happens 
when the twins are about equally distant from the 
mouth of the womb, and are presented at the inlet 
together. Of course, they cannot pass through the 
canal together, hence the difliculty. Upon examination, 
ihe operator will experience great difficulty in deter- 
mining the positions of the two foetuses. This can be 
done only by careful examination, and then the oi)erator 
will find himself somewhat embarrassed. Forexampje, 
the forefeet of one fu'tus may be presented with the 
head of the other; or the head and one forefoot may 
])resent with one forefoot of tlie other; or one liind foot 
of each foetus may present together; or a forefoot of one 
with the hind foot of the other, etc. In some instances 
the legs of the twins are so interlaced, that they are 
separated only with the greatest difficulty. One thing 
is certain, only one can l)e delivered at a time. There- 
fore, they must be separated and one pushed back into 
the womb, while the other is being delivered. When the 
one is born, the other, if in a wrong position, must be 
straightened and removed. Tliis is quite easily written 
but not so easily performed. If assistance is not alVorded 
before both foetuses become wedged into the pelvic inlet, 
the operator will experience great trouble in adjusting 
them. But if distinguished before entering the inlet, 
but little trouble need be anticipated. Select the one 
most favorably situated, fasten ropes to the head and 
forelegs or to the hind legs, as the case may be, and 
arrange them in a direction proper for delivery. Then 
let an assistant draw tlie f.etus toward the outlet while 



458 



DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORGAXS. 



the operator pushes the other back within the womb. 
After delivering the first one, search for the other, 
whicli probably will be in a mal-position, requiring 
adjustment before it can be born. 



DOUBLE-HEADED MONSTROSITIES. 

A^ery seldom, indeed, do we witness double-headed 
monstrosities with mares or cows. In the former I have 
neither seen nor read of any ; but in the cow I have seen 




DOlPI.K-i'KADEL) JIOX^^TROSITY. 

one and read of otliers. IJut they are very rare, indeed. 
Sometimes these monstrosities are born alive and live a 
considerable time. The one that I saw, was living at 
three years of age, to all appearance healthy and a good 
feeder. It was placed on exhibition. She only used 
one mouth while feeding. The other mouth was well 
formed and had a full set of teeth, but she had little 



HYDllOCEPIIALUS, OR WATER ON THE BRAIN. 459 

control of the lower jaw. Though, if the mouth was 
opened with a little assistance, it would close sponta- 
neously. Botli heads were well-formed, uniting at the 
neck, both mouths emptying into the one oesophagus. 

The existence of this mal-formation renders birth 
more or less difficult and sometimes impossible, accord- 
ing to the size of the heads. But sometimes birth 
occurs without assistance and with little difficulty. 
An examination will reveal the condition, when 
tlie operator will adopt the measure necessary to 
complete the delivery. If the mother is large and 
the genital canal well formed, forcible traction may 
complete the delivery. But if, in the judgment of the 
operator, this will not do, embryotomy must be resorted 
to. Cutting off one or both of the heads may be neces- 
sary before delivery can be completed. If the heads 
are united closely, split them with a chisel and then 
remove them ; or, in such cases, bone forceps may be 
used. If it be a double head and neck, cut off the neck, 
as low down as possible, and remove it lirst; then 
remove the balance. There are several other forms of 
monstrosities but, as they so seldom occur, a description 
here is quite unnecessary. Suffice it to say, that if it be 
impossible to deliver them by moderate traction, ampu- 
tate such parts ascau«ethe obstruction and deliver. 



HYDROCEPHALUS, OR WATER ON THE BRAIN. 

This anomaly is found in colts and calves, both. The 
enormous size of the head, is the obstacle to a natural 
i.ciivery. If with an anterior presentation, birth will 
be delayed, and, on making an examination, the opera- 
tor will soon discover the deformity. But, if with pos- 
terior presentation the operator discovers this deformity, 
he should endeavor to change the position to an anterior 
[)resentation, and, after bringing the nose into the inlet. 



460 



DISEASES OF THE GENERATIVE ORftANS. 



he should plunge a knife through the head, making a 
free incision to allow the water to escape. After 
which, on applying traction, the tissues gradually 
tlatten down and birth is completed. • But if it be 
presented liind feet first and birth is complete with the 




HYDROCEPHALUS, OR WATER OK THE BKAIX. 

exception of the head, which is too large to pass through 
the genital canal and prevents delivery, the operator 
should pass the hand along the neck and examine the 
head. If hydrocephalus is recognized he should open 
the head with a knife or trocar and canula, and allow 
the fluid to escape, after which the tissues will flatten 
down and traction will complete the delivery. 



ASCITES, OR ABDOMINAL DROPSY. 

With this disease, the abdomen of the foetus will be 
swollen to such an extent that it cannot enter the geni- 
tal passage, though the head and forefeet may be pre- 



ASCITIC-. Oi: AP.I'OjriXAL DROPSY. 



461 



sented in a natural position and well advanced in the 
canal. On examination, if the operator cannot pass the 
hand between the head and the Avails of the passai.^e to 
ascertain the cause of obstruction, he should first secure 
the head and forefeet with ropes, then force them back 
into the woin)). After that he will have no diflSculty in 
ascertaining the troul)le, if dropsy is the cause. He 
should then plunge a knife into the ahdomen of the 




ACITE8. Oli AHDOMINAL DROPSY. 

f(jetus, making a large incision to allow the fluid to 
escape into the womb, after which delivery can be com- 
pleted. But if he cannot return the head to the womb, 
or does not think best to do so, he must either plunge a 
knife into the abdomen of the f(ptus and allow the fluid 
to escape into the womb, or use a trocar and canula, 
plunging it into the abdomen and allowing the fluid to 
escape externally. Afterwards, moderate traction will 
complete the delivery. 



DISEASES OF SHEEP, 

THEIR 
CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT. 



CATARRH, OR COLD. 

Oatarrli, or cold is quite a ('ouiiiion complnint anionc; 
sheep, during the fall, winter and spring. Indeed it is 
rarely absent in any flock where any great number is 
kept. 

Causes; — It is most often caused by being coniined in 
close, damp yards or by housing in stables or sheds, too 
closely together, without sufficient ventilation. The 
heat arising from the sheep causes a high temperature, 
thus over-heating the animals and when turned out into 
the bleak winds they catch cold very easily; in fact the 
liability to take cold is greater, than when allowed to 
roam in the open fields, exposed to the weather. It is 
well to have dry, open sheds where sheep can lie down 
at night or to protect them from storms, but close hous- 
ing is detrimental rather than beneficial. When 
allowed plenty of fresh air, good ventilation, dry yards 
and clean, dry bedding, catarrh will seldom be seen. A 
wet or damp cold or a close, moist atmosphere is very 
productive of this trouble. 

Symptoms : — More or less fever is present ; the sheep 
snuffles considerably and mucous is discharged from the 
nostrils. There will be very little coughing but if the 
lungs become involved, the cough will 1)ec()nie dry and 

(465) 



4()6 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

deep-seated. The appetite is partially suspended, and 
the animal appears weak and stupid. 

Treatment: — Remove tlie rause as quickly as possible, 
to protect the balance of the tiock, then remove the 
aft'ected ones to warm, dry, well-ventilated quarters. 
If the bowels are constipated, give 

Epsom Salts three ounces. 

Ginger two drachms. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Give at one dose, to be followed with 

Quinine two drachms. 

Dover Powder two drachms. 

Cayenne Pepper two drachms. Mix. 

Make twelve powders. Give three powders each 
day, or 

(linger two ounces. 

Gentian two ounces. 

Saltpeter two ounces. Mix. 

Place in a quart of water and simmer over a slow lire 
for twenty minutes, then add half pint of good whisky 
and bottle. Give half wineglassful four times a day. 
Give good, nourishing food and occasional draughts of 
flaxseed tea. Good nursing is very imi^ortant. Without 
this, medicines are useless. Keep the animal dry and 
comfortable, with plenty of fresh air. 



PNEUMONIA— LUNG FEVER, OR INFLAMMATION OF 
THE LUNGS. 

This disease is an inflammation of the lung substance 
and often follows catarrh. It is a very serious affection 
and is more frequent than is generally supposed, many 
eheep dying from this trouble and the owner imagining 
some other malady the cause of death, on account of its 



PNEUMONIA — LUING FEVER, ETC. 467 

course bein^ so rapid and fatal. It is j^enerally caused 
by exposure of some sort, as washing in cold spring 
water on a raw. 'old day, or exposure to cold rains in 
the fall and spring; by shearing too early or exposure 
to cold storms after shearing; becoming over-heated 
while driving or by being too closely confined without 
sufficient ventilation, etc. 

Symptoms: — The first symptoms observed by the 
owner or keeper is loss of appetite and suspended rumi- 
nation, closely followed by grinding of the teeth, with a 
high fever and an inordinate desire for drinking water, 
or if in the winter, the eating of snow. The pulse is 
hard and quick, the breathing labored and rapid, 
accompanied by a heaving at the flanks and a painful 
cough, with a flow of thick, yellow mucous from the 
hostrils. 

Treatment: — While bleeding is strongly condemned 
by some and as thoroughly upheld by others, I believe 
that both extremes are attended with baneful resuUs. 
If blood-letting is resorted to, it should be done early 
and only in young, strong, plethoric animals, when the 
best of results are often obtained; but in aged and 
weakly animals this manner of treatment should not be 
attempted. Whether the patient is bled or not, give 
three ounces of epsom salts in a quart of water. If this 
does not operate freely in four or five hours, repeat the 
dose, as a good, free physic is demanded and is not 
attended with any evil results. Immediately following 
t!ie physic, administer — 

Quinine Sulphate three drachms. 

Saltpetre one ounce. Mix, 

Make nine powders. Give one powder every three 
or four hours. Or, 

Liquor Ammonia Acetatis. . . .one pint. 
Fluid Ext. Aconite half draclim. Mix. 



468 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

Give two tablespoonfiils every three liours. As the 
sheep begin to improve, a pint of gniel or flaxseed tea 
may be given three times a day, to which may be added 
a drachm of powdered gentian or ginger. Keep the 
sheep in a comfortable, airy place, as good nursing is 
of as great importance as eifective medicines. 



COSTIVENESS— STRETCHES— CONSTIPATION. 

Costiveness is most often seen where sheep are 
rhanged from pasture to dry food. The regular exercise 
aiforded while grazing, together with the succulent 
grasses eaten, will tend to keep the bowels in a moist 
condition, but when changed to dry food, they are usu- 
ally kept in yards where they eat from racks, which 
requires no exercise. Tiien the dung becomes scanty, 
dry and hard and is passed at irregular intervals. The 
sheep grunts or moans from pain while passing manure, 
and the exposed part of the last bowel looks red and 
inflamed. If the constipation continues for any length 
of time, from neglect or otherwise, the sheep will be 
observed standing with forefeet extended and the hind 
feet set back, as if stretching itself; the head will be 
elevated and the back curved downward. The condi- 
tion is now somewhat grave and a physic should be 
given immediately, as 

Epsom Salts three ounces. 

Gentian, or Ginger one draclim. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of water as a drench. But 
if, when changing sheep from pasture to dry food, they 
are allowed salt at will, costiveness will seldom be 
observed. Constipation in lambs is often noticed, espe- 
cially in such as are not nursing the mother and are fed 
upon cows' milk or the milk of other ewes. As soon as 
the bowels fail to act, the belly becomes distended, the 



DIARKH<KA, OR SCOl'RS IN LAMBS. 4C9 

Iamb lies down most of the time and appears as though 
in a stupor, the urine is suppressed or is very scanty and 
if the iininial is not speedily relieved death will ensue. 
The best mode of treatment is to give frequent injections 
of castile soap and water, or inject a few ounces of 
melted lard into the last bowel. Also give a physic, as 
a spoonful of castor oil, or two or three spoonfuls of 
melted lard. After the bowels have responded, should 
the lamb appear stupid and dull, give a few spoonfuls 
of hot whiskv three times a da v. 



DIARRHOEA, OR SCOURS IN LAMBS. 

When sheep are tirst turned out to grass in the 
fpring of the year, after having been wintered on dry 
food, they are liable to have a looseness of the bowels 
or diarrhoea, which is seldom attended with any dan- 

/ 




SCOURS IN LAVBS. 

perous results as regards the whole flock. Now and then 
a single individual will scour so badly, that the jjrocess 
of nutrition is seriously ail'ected and dysentery is the 
result. In sucking lambs diarrhoea is very fatal, if it 
does not receive the closest attention. , 

Causes: — It usually arises from exposure to cold, 
sudden changes of temperature, hot stabling in winter 
with the bad air evolved, the result of improper venti- 
lation ; a fat, full-blooded or plethoric condition of the 
mother, nursing milk from caked bags, cold drinks, etc. 



470 DISEASES OF PHKEP. 

Symptoms : — The lamb is not at all playful, but slums 
its playmates and appears languid and sad; it either 
lies down a considerable portion of the time or stands 
with its back arched. The dung, which is frequently 
passed, is thin and whitish in color, later on becoming 
mixed with mucous and finally bloody. It now ceases 
to nurse and eat and will bleat frequently. The belly 
becomes tucked up and if pressure is applied thereto,, 
the animal, evinces pain. It loses flesh very rapidly and 
if not relieved, will die in a few days. 

Treatment: — First of all remove the cause if it can 
be clearly ascertained. Change the food immediately, 
have good ventilation, and as pure air as possible. 
Then take the white of an egg and beat it up thor- 
oughly with a half cup of milk-warm water. Give three 
times a day. If this does not check the malady, take 

Prepared Chalk one ounce. 

Powdered Catechu four drachms. 

Powdered Ginger two drachms. 

Powd. Opium half drachm. 

Peppermint AVater half pint. Mix. 

Shake well before using. Give tablespoonful to o 
lamb, and two tablespoonfuls to a grown sheep. Great 
benefit is sometimes derived by giving two or three 
grains of quinine, four or five times a day. In cases of 
white scours arising from non-digestion of the ewe's 
milk, a tablespoonful of raw linseed oil should be given 
to clear the bowels of the irritant, and should the pros- 
tration be very great, the following will be of excellent 
service : 

Eggs two. 

Whiskey two ounces. 

Essence of Ginger one drachm. 

Beat up with a pint of flaxseed tea or milk and give 
three tablespoonfuls every three hours. 



HOVEX, OR BLOATING. 471 

HOVEN, OR BLOATING. 

This disorder is a distension of the first stomach with 
gas, to an alarming extent, causing a bulging on the 
left side. 

Causes: — The most common cause is feeding greedily 
upon green, succulent food and more especially, green 
clover that is wet with rain or dew. A rapid fermenta- 
tion takes, place and gas is quite liberally generated. 
Eating musty hay or blighted corn, sometimes produces 
a disordered condition of the stomach and bloating; or 
it may be a sympton of some constitutional disturbance, 
whereby it causes a chemical change in the alkaline 
secretions of the stomach. 

Symptoms: — Swelling of the belly on the left side, to 
a greater or less extent. Sometimes the skin is drawn 
so tightly over the swelling, that if pounded with the 
end of the fingers, it will sound like a drum. These 
swellings appear shortly after the animal has been feed- 
ing. The breathing is seriously affected, being short, 
quick and accompanied with a grunt. The bowels are 
constipated and symptoms of pain are manifested by 
the anxious expression of the eyes and countenance. 

Treatment: — The animal must receive immediate 
attention. If the swelling is great, there must be no 
time lost. Take 

Ammonia Water (Hartshorn) 

one teaspoonful. 

Water half pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose. Or, 

Baking Soda one teaspoonful. 

Ginger half teaspoonful. 

Water hnlf pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose. If this does not give relief, do 
not wait too long but use a trocar and canula if you 



472 DlSEASi:S OF SHKKP. 

]i;ive one, if not, use a penknife. Either cut ofl' or 
separate the wool on the left side over the rnoet pronji- 
nent part of the swelling, between the last rib and hip 
bone, and plunge the knife blade into the stomach. A 
goose-quill or hollow elder may be inserted, to assist the 
escape of gas. Often the gas escapes sufficiently 
through the wound, without placing a hollow tube into 
it. After the immediate symptoms are relieved, the 
following should be given : 

Epsom Salts two ounces. 

Ginger one drachm. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose, or give two or three ounces of raw 
linseed oil. If the sheep is somewhat prostrated, give 
one ounce of hot whiskey, to which may be added a 
drachm of ginger, after which feed on bran mash for a 
few days, and in a gradual manner, return to pasture. 
Houietimes mechanical means will aid materially in 
relieving of the gas. Manipulate the stomach with the 
hands, pressing it quite severely and the gas will escape 
by the mouth. Or by placing a stick as large as a man's 
wrist, cross- wise in the mouth and fastening it there, 
the gas will frequently belch up, quite heavily. Or a 
rubber hose may be passed down the throat into the 
stomach, and the gas allowed to escape in this manner. 



BRAXY—CHARBON— SPLENIC APOPLEXY. 

Causes : — This is a disease of the blood and is caused 
from over-feeding on very rich or unhealthy food, and 
exposure to changeable Aveather, consequently it is most 
frequently seen in the spring and fall of the year w^hen 
the grass is either luxuriant, succulent and sappy, or 
covered with milden- and rust, as the season may be. It 



BRAXV — CllAHBON SPLKNIO APOl'LEXY. 47i) 

is also caused from high foediiiu: vrith grain 'and hay and 
being coniined in warm stables, without sufficient exer- 
cise. Also from feeding on bottom lands, where good 
water is not obtainable or easy of access. 

Symptoms : — AVhen the termination is rapid and fatal, 
it might properly be called Splenic Apoplexy, as after 
death the spleen will be found enlarged and gorged with 
blood and not infrequently ruptured, softened and 




CHARBON. 

ulcerated. When this state of affairs is observed the 
attack will be sudden, the sheep refusing food and 
shivering as if affected with a chill. AVeakness is now 
manifested by staggering or reeling movements, in its 
attempt to walk. Tiie breathing is very rapid, the eyes 
bloodshot and the mouth injected with blood of a dull, 
red color ; the urine is passed freely and is tinged with 
blood; a bloody froth emanates from the mouth and 
nostrils, the head and neck is bent backward during the 
convulsive struggles, a gurgling or rattling is heard in 
the throat and death ends the scene. The slower 
form is properly called Charbon and while it is called 
s'ower, it seldom lasts to exceed three days. Tlie symp- 
toms are pains in the bowels, the animal lying down 
and rising up frequently : later, it will stand with its 
Lead down and ears drooping and its back humped up. 



474 DJSKAiSES OF SHICKP. 

The eyes are bloodsliot and the belly somewhat swollen ; 
red or purple spots appear on the skin, presenting- an 
angry appearance. These spots swell and blisters form, 
fiiied with a watery or bloody fluid. A very otfensive 
odor permeates the atmosphere around the sick animal, 
ami a bloody tluid appears around the mouth, eyes, 
nose and anus. Convulsions now quickly claim the 
patient, or it passes into a stupor and dies. 

Treatment: — Notwithstanding a large percentage 
perish, yet we are justified in trying to save Avhat we 
possibly can. Immediately give a good x)hysic as 

Epsom Salts two ounces. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Or, 

Castor, or Raw Linseed Oil 

three ounces. 

Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose. This should be followed imme- 
diately with drachm doses of chlorate of potash, every 
four hours; change pasture or mode of feeding and give 
light diet with good, fresh clean water. Avoid pastur- 
ing on low ground or where they have access to stag- 
nant water. 



CONCRETIONS OF FOREIGN SUBSTANCES IN THE 
STOMACH. 

Foreign substances often find their way into the 
stomach, and in such a simple manner as to escape de- 
tection. Tliere is no animal that grazes closer than the 
sheep, and in nipping the pasture so closely during dry 
seasons, they eat a certain amount of dirt and some 
times small stones are picked up and find their way into 
the stomach, as well as small pieces of glass, ~ etc. 
Through the winter and spring months prior to shear- 



COXGEf^TIOX OF THE LIVER. 475 

ing, when slieep are infested with ticks or any siiiall, 
itching sores, they bite the parts and the wool hec-onu's 
entangled into the teeth, and later, is swallowed with tlie 
food. After it gains access to the stomach, it may pass 
off with the excrement or it may form the nucleus of a 
ball which continues to increase daily and inontlily, 
until it assumes immense proportions, sometinu's the 
size of a sugar bowl. These accumulations are seldom 
detected until after death. 

Symptoms: — When any of these substances cause 
derangement of the bowels, there will be violent purg- 
ing, the animal will grind its teeth, the nose will be 
stretched out, and the ears hang pendulous. The appe- 
tite and rumination are suspended and the sheep will 
stand aloof from the balance of the flock, and possibly 
remain in one place, refraining from moving for a long 
period at a time. By pressing upon the stomach and 
bowels at the flanks, pain will be evinced and the 
animal will grunt or groan. 

Treatment: — The only treatment that will avail, con- 
sists in feeding soft food, as bran mash, oatmeal or 
flaxseed gruel, corn mush, etc., together with ounce 
doses daily of epsom or glanlier salts administered with 
a pint of water. If the sheep will not eat the soft food, 
it may be drenched quite liberally with the provender. 



CONGESTION OF THE LIVER. 

During the fall and winter season, when sheep are 
penned up without exercise and fed upon highly nutri- 
tious and stimulating food, preparing them either for 
■exhibition or for sale, there is an excessive,; amount of 
blood formed and as tlie liver is one of the purifying 
glands, it is liable to become gorged \yith blood, or con- 



476 DISEASES OK SIIKf^P. 

gested. It is caused by deranged digestion and if it 
partakes of a serious character, it will produce consti- 
pation, dullness and a yellowness of the mouth and 
eyes. When the symptoms are observed no time should 
be lost. Give inunediateiy, 

Epsom kSalts two ounces. 

Calomel three grains. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of warm water, to be fol- 
lowed every morning until the yellowish condition dis- 
appears, with two ounces of glauber salts in a pint of 
warm water. Allow plenty of water, slightly warmed^ 
to drink. ' 



INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. 

As congestion precedes inflammation, neglect of the 
former is liable to result in the latter. The same symp- 
toms are also observed, but there is greater pain in the 
right side and if pressed upon heavily over the region of 
the liver, the animal will moan with pain. The nose 
and mouth are dry and hot, demonstrating a fevered 
condition. The breathing is slow and emits an offensive 
odor; the pulse is slow and the ears and limbs cold; the 
manure is dry, hard and black and covered with a yel- 
lo\\ ish slime; the urine is scanty, high-colored and has 
a!t offensive smell. 

Treatment: — The bowels should be unloaded as 
quickly as possible. Give 

Epsom Salts two ounces. 

Calomel two grains. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of warm water. Frequent 
ii^iections of warm water and castile soap are benelicial 
until the bowels act freely. Also give the following; 

Glauber Salts one pound. 

Powdered Saltpeter one ounce. Mix. 



INFLUENZA — EPIZOOTIC — DISTEMPER. 4 ( ( 

Make eight powders. Give one powder morning and 
evening in a pint of warm water. Should the bowels 
become too loose, divide the powders again. When 
convalescence takes place, with returning appetite, 
nothing but the most easily digested food should be 
given, as boiled bran mash, flaxseed meal, turnips, 
carrots, malt, etc., with good, x>ure water and room 
should be allowed for plenty of exercise. Carefully 
avoid too high, rich, stimulating food. 



INFLUENZA— EPIZOOTIC— DISTEMPER. 

This disease, though somewhat peculiar, is yet quite 
common in this country. It is not confined to any par- 
ticular locality and the flocks over an extended area, 
may become affected at the same time. It is most pre- 
valent during continued cold, damp, changeable weather 
and the most fatal where the land is low and marshy or 
along river bottoms where heavy fogs prevail in the 
morning and evening. It is always seen in the mildest 
form, where the herd is kept on liigh, dry elevations 
with good shelter for the night. It is neither contag- 
ious nor infectious, but is produced through atmospheric 
influences and consists of an irritated and inflamed con- 
dition of the air passages, causing a general disturbance 
of the system, with more or less prostration. 

Symptoms : — The eyes look red, with a profusion of 
tears running down over the cheeks. There is a dis- 
charge of mucous from the nostrils, coughing and sneez- 
ing to clear the nostrils, loss of appetite, suspended 
rumination, with emaciation and general weakness. 
The bowels are usually constipated and sometimes- 
elight bloating is present. 



478 DISEA8KS OP SHKEP. 

Treatment : — When first noticed, if on low ground, 
change to high, dry pasture with good shelter for tlie 
nights, and allow a liberal supply of ciilorute of potas- 
sium in the drinking water, say one draelini tliree times 
a day. If the bowels are constipated, give 

Epsom kSalts one ounce. 

Ginger one draclim. Mix. 

Give at one dose in half pint of water. When there 
is considerable fever and much prostration, stimulants 
art- indicated, as half ounce of whiskey or brandy and 
two ounces of hot water, to which should be added a 
teaspoonful of sugar. Give every four or five hours, or 
better still, give the following : 

Liquor ammonia acetatis, one ounce, every four 
hours. If the eyes are badly inflamed and mattering, 
bathe occasionally with warm water and salt. When 
the appetite is returning and recovery is indicated, give 
a soft, nutritious diet, as bran masli, flaxseed meal, 
boiled oats, etc., to which a little gentian may be added 
to tone up the system and assist digestion ; or the fol- 
lowing formula may be used : 

Gentian one ounce. 

Ginger one ounce. 

Copperas one ounce. 

Saltpetre one ounce. Mix. 

Make sixteen powders. Give one i)owder morning 
and evening. Good nursing and shelter should always 
be provided for sick animals. 



DYSENTERY. 

This disease is caused in a similar manner to 
diarrhoea, and quite frequently results from neglected 
or a prolonged case of diarrhoea, as well as turning out 
on rich pasture after feeding on dry food. It may also 



DYSENTERY. 479 

be caused by drinking- impure water, f'-^'ling on poor,' 
indigestible fodder. Exceedingly hot and damp weather 
without shade or shelter, is a proliiie cause. 

Symptoms : — It diflers from diarrhoea in the severity 
of its symptoms. In diarrhcea there is little or no fever 
present, while in dysentery there is a high fever. The 
dung is passed in small, hard lumps and is covered witli 
blood and slime, and possesses a disagreeable smell. It 
is discharged often and is accompanied by heavy strain- 
ing. The sheep humps up its back and moans or grunts 
during the act. The wool feels harsh and loosens its 
hold, and in the course of a few days is easily pulled 
out. There is more or less grinding of the teeth, a 
tucked-up appearance at the flank and the animal pre- 
sents a discouraged and dejected appearance. 

Treatment: — When a large number in a flock is 
aflected, remove to a high and dry ground where there 
is different pasture, and pure water to drink, as there 
is more or less thirst. Such as do not recover quickly 
after the change, should be given a mild physic, as 
Castor, or Raw Linseed Oil. two ounces. 

Laudanum one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose in half pint of flaxseed tea. They 
should now be separated from the balance of the flock 
and kept in a cool, shady place, as the hot sun is very 
aggravating and fatal in this disease. The pliysic 
should be followed with frequent doses of flaxseed or 
slippery elm tea, to which should be added twice daily, 
a teaspoonful of laudanum. Give one ounce of castor 
or raw linseed oil, every other day ; it will do no harm 
and is often productive of much good. The pastures 
occupied by the flock Avhile affected with dysentery, 
should not be used again, until after a couple of heavy 
rains, to destroy and wash away the poison from the 
manure, which would otherwise remain on the grasses 
and produce the disease. 



-ISO DI8EASKS OF SUKEP. 

BLACK-LEG— QUARTER-ILL— MURRAIN. 

This disease is not often observed in the Eastern or 
Middle States, from the fact that farmers depend upon 
wintering their flocks on stored provisions; but in the 
Western States, where large flocks are kept upon the 
prairies, many depend upon pasturing or lay in only a 
small supply of food for winter use; consequently, when 
a severe winter is passed through, the sheep being 
sparsely fed, are in a very thin condition. The spring 
■opens up with rains and hot sun, the grass grows lux- 
uriantly and the half-starved sheep gorge themselves 
and take on flesh so rapidly that the blood becomes dis- 
organized, so that while the owner or herder thinks the 
sheep are thriving tinely, they commence to die very 
suddenly. It generally takes the young and thrifty 
sheep; the old ones are seldom attacked. 

Symptoms: — When one or two die so suddenly, the 
herder generally looks over the liock, when he will 
observe some lame and limjjing. The sides or quarters 
will be found swollen, the wool comes off easily, and by 
pressing the hand down over the swollen spots, a crack- 
ling sound is heard under the skin, as though filled with 
air or gas. The eyes look red and the mouth and 
tongue are inflamed and blistered. The urine is high 
•colored, the bowels constipated, and if any dung is 
passed, it is covered with blood. In a short time the 
sheep can no longer maintain the standing position. It 
falls down upon its side, the tongue is protruded, and 
bloating is observed. The limbs become outstretched 
and death claims the victim in a very few hours. 

Treatment: — As prevention is the best cure, it is only 
necessary to remove the cause, and this is best done by 
.carefully avoiding sudden changes from poor food to 
rich nutritious food or pastures. But when any of the 



SHEEP SMALL-POX. 481 

afore mentioned symptoms are observed, the whole 
flock should be placed in a yard where there is no food 
to be obtained. Then take out to pasture for a couple 
of hours, morning and evening, until the stomach and 
entire system adapt themselves to the change, and the 
animal takes on flesh more moderately. Such as are 
sick, should have a physic immediately. 

Glauber Salts four ounces. 

Sulphur half ounce. 

Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of flaxseed tea or oatmeal 
gruel, or a little syrup and water. In the course of a 
few hours, a half teaspoonful of turpentine in an ounce 
of raw linseed oil or flaxseed tea may be given at 
intervals of live hours; or a teaspoonful of sweet spirits 
of nitre may be given every five hours, in a little water, 
as a drench. As before stated, this disease is very rapid 
and fatal ; consequently treatment is not very satis- 
factory. 



SHEEP SMALL-POX. 



>Snin11-pox is a contagious, eruptive fever, very inucli 
resembling small-pox in the human family. It is not 
identical with the human-pox or cow-pox, but yet it is 
of the same type. It is not communicable to man or 
other animals, even by inoculation, Jind belongs exclu- 
sively to the sheep. Originally, it is produced by sheep 
inhaling impure air, or air contaminated with a virus, 
tli\is poisoning the blood, and the eruptions formed is 
nature's effort to rid the system of the imprisoned 
gerujs. It is most often contracted by coming in con- 
tact with sheep affected Avith the disease, as it is 
ecjualjy as contagious and infectious with sheep, as 
svnall-pox is with the human family. 



482 i)ISEASES OF SHEEP. 

Symptoms: — Sheep-pox assumes two forms, one 
malignant or dangerous, the other mild. But in either 
form there is a period of incubation, of from nine to 
eleven days, during which time no symptoms of the dis- 
ease appear. At the termination of the period of incu- 
bation, fever is observed, the eyes look red and blood- 
sjiot, the breathing is quickened, the skin is dry and 
hot, there is loss of appetite, excessive thirst, and the 
animal will be noticed to lick at dirt. The eruption 
now makes its appearance in the form of small pim- 
ples on the skin, between the forelegs, Avhich space is 
least covered with wool. These pimples soon run 
together, and in a few days a small blister appears, con- 
taining a fluid like water, which soon develops into 
matter and looks white. It is now at the stage when 
the matter should be collected and preserved for inocu- 
lation purposes. In a few days it dries up, the scabs 
scale off and leave a mark from which no wool will ever 
grow. The sheep now begins to improve and unless it 
receives some backset, a ra])id recovery may be antici- 
pated. When the malignant form is observed, there 
are no pustules found, but scarlet or purple spots are 
noticed. The skin cracks in various shapes, the wool 
falls oif and a foul-smelling discharge comes from the 
nostrils; otlierwise, the symptoms are the same as in 
the mild form. Death usually takes place within three 
weeks from the outset. 

Treatment: — After the disease has once established 
itself, medicinal interference will avail but little, and 
instead of relying upon the use of medicines, greater 
attention should be given toward its prevention, which 
is done in two ways — tirst, by isolating the affected 
sjieep from the healthy ones, as soon as noticed, and 
s(-c()ndly. by vaccination, which is performed by taking 
some of the white matter from the pustules of an 



SHEEP SMALL-POX. 483 

affected sheep, and inserting a small portion of it 
beneath the skin of a healthy sheep, either at the ear or 
the end of the tail, care being taken that the matter is 
obtained from a sheep that is not affected with the 
scab or rot. Vaccination is the safest preventative, as 
all reports from France, Germany, Austria and Russia, 
where it has been thoroughly practiced, tends to prove. 
It has greatly lessened the mortality. It is needless to 
vaccinate sheep at the present time in this country, for 
as yet small-pox has not made its appearance, but 
owing to the rapid transit between Europe and this 
country, sheep might be imported and landed while the 
disease is in the incubative stage, and the malady would 
scatter very rapidly, then vaccination would be advisa- 
ble, and when commenced, it should be continued until 
it has thoroughly taken on all. From the time small- 
pox is observed, there should be good nursing with 
plenty of fresh air, carefully avoiding draughts ; there 
should be given a liberal amount of flaxseed or oatmeal 
gruel, in pure water, slightly warmed, into which may 
be placed a few drops of aromatic sulphuric acid. Give 
as a drink. If the sheep appear very weak, give the 
following: 

Liquor Acetate of Ammonia 

seven ounces. 

Sweet Spirits Niter two ounces. Mix. 

Give tablespoonful three times a day. When an 
animal dies of small-pox, it should be buried very 
deeply and have plenty of lime thrown on the carcass, 
or else it should be burned up, as every portion of the 
dead animal will convey infection, if not completely 
destroyed. 



484 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

APHTHA— FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE. 

Aphtha has been observed in various parts of this 
country, but not to any great extent ; only a few scat- 
tered cases have been seen. It has never affected 
whole districts, as it has in Europe. Seemingly, our 
climate is not suitable for its ravages, but rather tends 
to eradicate the disease than to encourage its develop- 




ULCERS BETWEEN THE TOES. 

ment. Yet, some form of the disorder may develop in 
this climate and prove very troublesome. In those cli- 
mates which are favorable to its propagation, it is very 
contagious, and belongs to a class of eruptive fevers. 
It emanates from a ferment or poison in the blood. 

Symptoms: — The ailment is usually ushered in with 
a chill, which is not always observed ; a high fever fol- 
lows accompanied with a cough. The appetite now 
becomes whimsical and the animal ceases to chew its 
cud. There is slight tenderness over the loins, and a 
grinding of the teeth with saliva drivelling from the 
mouth.' Blisters containing a watery fluid, are now 
observed on the tongue, lips and mouth as also around 
and between the feet. These blisters eventually break 



APHTHA — FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE. 485 

and sometimes run together, leaving a raw sore, which 
is quite painful. The feet become so swollen and full 
of pain, that the animal lies down most of the time and 
when attempting to walk, does so in a lame, unsteady 
manner. Like all other eruptive fevers, it runs its 
course, which is usually from ten to fifteen days, and if 
it terminates favorably, the animal is proof against the 
same disease, should it again be exposed thereto. But 
if unfavorable, the disease increases in force until the 
feet drop off, and the animal dies in great misery. 

Treatment : — When not of a malignant type, the 
treatment is very simple and effective. Give one good 
physic but do not repeat it, as 

Epsom Salts two ounces. 

Jamaica Ginger one drachm. 

Water half pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose. Wash the mouth twice daily, with 
the following lotion : 

Powd. Alum one ounce. 

Chlorate of Potassium one ounce. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Wash the feet well, every other day with a mixture 
of bluestone and soft water, say an ounce of bluestone 
to two gallons of water. After bathing, use 

Vaseline four ounces. 

Carbolic Acid two drachms. Mix. 

Apply well, then wrap the feet in a cloth to protect 
them from dirt. Isolate all diseased animals from the 
healthy, and after the disorder has abated, fumigate the 
buildings thoroughly, by burning sulphur or scattering 
chlorinated lime. If the malady appears in the malig- 
Bant form, the cheapest and most effective treatment 
is to kill and bury or burn all those affected, and remove 
such as have not taken the disease, to other quarters. 



486 BISEA61S OF SHEEP. 

FOUL IN THE FOOT— SORE FEET— FOOT LAMENESS— 

GRAVEL. 

Causes: — Sheep that are kept in yards that have 
accumulations of manure, so arranged that it is very 
wet, causing a liquor to be formed by the manure and 
water, are liable to be afflicted with sore feet, as also 
such as are kept on low, boggy, marsh pasture. Diseases 
of this character are also observed during wet seasons, 
when pasturing where the grass is very tall and 
growthy; the cleft between the toes being irritated 
while walking through the grass. It is sometimes pro- 
duced by a gravel or other substance becoming so firmly 
lodged between the toes, that the animal is unable to 
remove it, and it will produce a foul sore. 

Symptoms : — It is seldom noticed until the sheep 
begin to show lameness, when upon examination, the 
cleft of the foot and the surrounding skin, will present 
a whitish appearance with some inflammation and 
swelling. These swellings soon develop into sores, 
greatly resembling ulcers, or ulcers may be present, and 
this condition should not be mistaken for foot-rot. 

Treatment : — If attention is given to the trouble, it 
will soon disappear. If caused by filthy yards, remove 
to a dry, clean place, with plenty of dry straw to walk 
upon ; or the flock may be ti^rned upon hilly ground 
where the pasture is short. If they do not improve 
rapidly, take two pounds of copperas and dissolve it in 
ten gallons of soft water ; put it in a tub and place the 
patient's feet in the solution ; keep them there from two 
to three minutes, then turn on a dry place ; it may be 
necessary to repeat this in three days, but one applica- 
tion will generally suffice. Or take. 

Blue Vitriol one ounce, 

Yaseline, or Tar six ounces. Mix. 



1 



ftOOE*-RO't — FOOT-ROOf. 



48? 



Apply all around the sores. If gravel or some other 
substance causes the trouble, remove it, then trim off 
the diseased parts and apply the latter prescription. 



HOOF-ROT— FOOT-ROT. 

This disease is frequently observed in this country 
and the American shepherd who has charge of any great 
number of sheep, sooner or later becomes familiar 
with one of the greatest disturbing elements that befalls 
a liock. 

Causes: — While there is no question about it being 
contagious, and in many instances contracted through 




BANDAGE FOR FOOT-ROT. 

the source of contagion, yet it will break out in a flock 
that has never been in contact with sheep affected with 
the disease, thus well demonstrating that it can arise 
spontaneously. These cases are usually found in sheep 
that pasture on wet, low ground ; the feet become dis- 



488 Diseases of sheep. 

eased and foul, the horn separates from the sensitive 
sole, and filth accumulating there, exerts its influ- 
ence on the vascular tissues and softens the whole 
sole ; if neglected at this period, germs are developed 
which destroy the whole structure of the foot very rap- 
idly, and are highly contagious in character, as is 
observed in other sheep contracting the disease from 
the affected ones, although changed to higher and dryer 
pastures. 

Symptoms : — The disease is usually observed in the 
forefeet, although the hind feet are not exempt and may 
become affected first. When attacking the forefeet 
first, the sheep will be very lame, possibly walking 
upon its knees while feeding, and when through feeding, 
it is almost constantly lying down. Upon examination, 
the feet will at first be found highly inflamed, looking 
red and moist, or rough and chafed. Then blisters will 
form around the heels and between the toes, which soon 
break and discharge. Ulcers are now formed, which 
suppurate and discharge a foul-smelling matter. The 
bottom of the foot soon separates from the sensitive 
parts, and a foul-smelling matter oozes out. Soon 
afterward the horny sole comes off, leaving the sensitive 
parts exposed, which look swollen, black, and spongy, 
forming a good nest for maggots, which are frequently 
found. The constitutional symptoms are fever, to a 
greater or less degree, and loss of appetite; the sheep 
failing to chew its cud and lying around in a stupid 
condition. 

Treatment: — This should be prompt, from the fact 
that as the disease advances, the whole system becomes 
involved, and recovery is slow and tedious. The malady 
is dangerous and painful, but if immediate attention is 
given, with proper treatment and care it is always 
curable. As soon as lameness is observed, an examina- 



HOOF-ROt — fOOT-HOT. 

tion should be made, when all of the diseased parts 
must be removed with the knife, as a failure to do this, 
will prolong the disease and resist the action of all med- 
icines that may be applied ; but if the diseased parts are 
thoroughly removed, treatment is effective and certain. 
If there is an extra growth of horn at the toes, it should 
be cut down, and if matter is found, remove it and well 
expose the parts. If any portion of the horn looks 
whiter or softer than the balance of the foot, open it, as 
matter is likely concealed within. Should it bleed some, 
have no fear as there is no special danger. Clean the 
knife quite often, so that the matter from the affected 
parts will not come in contact with and adhere to the 
healthy tissues, carrying infection. After all diseased 
portions are removed, you are ready to apply medicines, 
and any caustic tliat will destroy germs, is beneficial. 
A cheap and easy method and one that is very effective, 
is to take a large tub or vat and put in it a strong solu- 
tion of blue vitriol, say a pound to four gallons of water, 
and keep it as hot as can be borne by the hand. Have 
it about four inches deep, then put the feet of the sheep 
into the solution, holding them there about ten min- 
utes, until thoroughly penetrating every crevice, then 
turn the animal on a dry, short pasture. One good 
application is generally all that is required. Or 
chloride of lime may be used. After paring the foot, 
cover it with the chloride and bandage. Inspect the 
foot in a couple of days, and if necessary apply again, 
repeating until a cure is completed. Or take, 

Finely Powdered Blue Vitriol 

one pound. 

Verdigris half pound. 

Linseed Oil one pint. 

Pine Tar one quart. Mix. 

Apply well all around the foot and allow it to dry, 
before turning out to pasture. Give internally, 



490 DISEASES OF SHEEi*. 

Epsom Salts two ounces. 

Baking Soda two drachms. 

Water half pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose. Drachm doses of saltpetre given 
night and morning, will prove very beneficial, if there 
is much fever present. But it is seldom necessary to 
give medicines internally, the local applications being 
suflBcient. 



SCAB— THE MANGE OR ITCH IN SHEEP. 

Causes : — Scab is a highly contagious disease, pro- 
duced by an insect in or upon the skin. There are dif- 
ferent forms of parasites that produce scab, concerning 
which it is here unnecessary to go into detail, as the 
treatment for all is the same. It has been asserted that 




SCAB. 

scab originates spontaneously, from neglect, exposure, 
etc. Such assertions are without foundation. It is 
now thoroughly understood that all animal life, owes 
its existence to a fecundated egg, and the scab 
insect is produced in the same manner. There is 
both a male and a female insect, the female being con- 
siderably the largest, and also exceeding the male in 
numbers, but living a shorter length of time. She dies 
very shortly after laying her eggs, which she deposits 



Scab — the mange or itch m sheep. 



491 



in the pores of the skin or around the scabs, and as they 
are very numerous and hatch in three days, there is a 
rapid increase. It has been truthfully asserted, that 
from one female, a million and a half of her progeny 
will be produced, in three months. This accounts for 




DIPPING SHEEP. 

the rapidity witli which the disease spreads, and also 
gives warning of the necessity for prompt and energetic 
treatment. That it sometimes appears in a flock under 
peculiar circumstances, none will deny, but flocks have 
been known to become affected by pasturing upon 
lands that had not been used for three years, after hav- 
ing grazed a flock of scabby sheep, thus showing that 
it has great tenacity of life even when not in its habita- 
tion, the sheep. 

Symptoms: — The first symptom observed is restless- 
ness accompanied by itching. The sheep will be noticed 
rubbing itself against a fence-post, stump, or stone, or 
any object to which it can get ; the wool loosens and is 



492 DISEASES OF SHEE?. 

rubbed off, leaving bare patches. They also frequently 
bite and nibble at their skin, thus pulling out the wool. 
The skin, upon examination, will appear somewhat 
thickened and whitish in color, and soon becomes 
covered with a yellowish liquid ; later on, the scab is 
formed, which if left unattended, will so annoy the 
animal that it will rub the scabs off, causing them to 
bleed, and large sores or scabs are formed, from which 
the wool drops off, leaving the poor sheep an unsightly 
looking ol3Ject. The sheep now rapidly falls off in 
flesh ; the appetite is gone, the fleece is lost, and the 
animal dies from exhaustion and torment. 

Treatment : — This can be acconplished in two ways — 
first, by dipping the sheep into some solution that will 
kill parasites ; second, rub ointment into the skin that 
will destroy the insect. But ointments are expensive 
and require more care, time and labor, as well as being 
a detriment to the sale of the wool for that season ; for 
these reasons, it is seldom used. The first method, 
dipping, is both the cheapest and most effectual manner 
of disposing of the parasites. There are several 
formulas for making a solution; I will give the best, 
cheapest and safest for the shepherd or farmer to use. 
Take 

Tobacco Leaves or Stems . . five pounds. 

Flower of Sulphur 

one and one-half pounds. 

Water twenty gallons. 

Mix the tobacco and water and bring it to a boiling 
heat (but do not boil) until the strength is taken from 
the tobacco. Then into this liquid, put the sulphur 
and stir thoroughly. Allow the mixture to cool off, to 
about 118 or 120 degrees, then commence to dip the 
sheep. If there are any old, hard scabs, break them 
up and remove them, then dip the sheep and hold it 



Maggots. 498 

under the water until it is well soaked, after which ele- 
vate it and let the water drip off, or place it on a rack 
where the liquid will drain back into the tub again. 
C )iitinue in this manner until all have deen dipped 
that are affected. Stir the liquid frequently, to keep 
the sulphur floating, also add a little hot liquor occa- 
sionally, to keep up the temperature. The animals 
should be kept in a yard for a time, so that none of the 
liquid will drip upon the pasture. Repeat this process 
in about ten days, so as to destroy any new parasites 
that may have hatched out. Or take 

Tobacco ten pounds. 

Pearl Ash three pounds. 

Sulphur three pounds. 

Soft Soap three pounds. 

Mix in ten gallons of water at boiling heat, (but do 
not boil) until the strength is extracted, then add water 
enough to make one hundred gallons. Use according 
to the foregoing instructions. It is usually estimated 
at one gallon to each sheep. Repeat in about ten days. 
Either of these recipes, if followed closely, will exterm- 
inate the scab insect, and result in a complete cure. 



MAGGOTS. 



Maggots are the product of the common flesh fly, the 
blow, or blue-bottle fly, and the meat fly, any of which 
deposit their eggs on a wound or injury ; or the tag- 
locks which accumulate around the tail of the sheep, 
will develop maggots so rapidly that within twenty-four 
hours they may be counted by the thousands. These 
maggots soon become live agents, which not only exist 
and subsist upon the sore or injured parts, but attack 
the skin, which becomes irritated and a serous fluid 
oozes out. In a little while the skin is pierced, or gives 



491 mSEASES OF SHEEP. 

way, and these little pests keep on devouring the sheep 
until it is a living mass of corruption, and if not given 
prompt attention, it very soon succumbs. There is more 
trouble from this source during warm, wet weather, 
than during dry seasons. Prevention is always better 
than cure, so keep the tag-locks well trimmed, and the 
flies cannot then, deposit their eggs upon them, for they 
lay their eggs only upon a filthy spot. If the sheep gets 
bruised or cut badly enough to form a sore, attend to it 
and keep it clean, until thoroughly healed. 

Sometimes at weaning time, sheep will suffer from 
caked bags, which break, causing ugly sores which the 
flies soon attack, resulting in the formation of maggots. 
Therefore, at weaning-time the ewes should receive 
extra attention, to prevent this trouble. Sheep that 
are affected with maggots, will stroll off by themselves, 
lie around considerably, and remain separate from the 
flock. When maggots are discovered, take turpentine, 
crude petroleum, or whale oil, any one of the three, and 
pour it freely upon them. This will kill the maggots, 
and prevent the flies from depositing more eggs. It 
will alBO assist in healing the wounds. These are the 
best remedies for this trouble. 



SHEEP TICK. 



The sheep tick has been observed by every farmer 
that owns or controls sheep. It is a dark red, tough- 
skinned, plump-bodied insect, which developes from an 
egg, laid by the female tick. As the female deposits 
but one egg at a time, they do not multiply very rap- 
idly, and if some attention is given to the sheep, it is 
easy to keep the flock comparatively free from them. 
When the sheep are shorn, in the spring of the year, 
the ticks emigrate to the lambs, for better shelter and 



SHEEP TICK. 495 

foraging grounds, and if the sheep and lambs are dipped 
into a solution of tobacco and sulphur, it will rid them 
of these pests. Take 

Tobacco (cheap leaves or stems) 

four pounds. 

Sulphur one pound. 

Water twenty gallons. Mix. 

Steep in hot water, a sufficient length of time to 
take the strength from the tobacco ; then dip the sheep 




SHEEP TICK. 

and lambs while the liquid is as hot as they can bear it. 
Hold the body in the liquid up to the head, for two 
or three minutes, then allow them to drain off. Repeat 
the same operation in September and you will free your 
flock from this pest. The sheep will thrive better and 
on less food, and the wool will not be rubbed off, thus 
insuring a profit that will more than repay the cost of 
dipping, beside the comfort to the sheep. 



THE SHEEP LOUSE. 



Lice are seldom seen on sheep whose wool is very 
yolky. They are more often found on dry-fleeced sheep, 
that have very little yolk in the wool. The louse is a 
very small insect, with a red head and a pale yellow 
body, marked with dark bands, running cross-wise. It 
is generally seen along the sides of the neck, between 



496 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

the forelegs, also around the groin, on the inner side of 
the hind legs. * It is the cause of considerable annoy- 
ance to the sheep, and when the animals are observed 
rubbing their necks between bars or gates, or rubbing. 




^'mfm 



v\^ 



SHEEP LOUSE. 

scratching and biting their legs on the inner surface, they 
should be examined, and if lice are found, use the 
following : 

Olive Oil one pint. 

Sulphur three ounces. 

Creosote one drachm. Mix. 

Rub the parts infested with the lice ; or take blue 
ointment and rub the parts sparingly. If the blue oint- 
ment is used, protect the sheep from storms for ten 
days. Sheep that are regularly dipped for scab or ticks 
are seldom troubled with lice. 



INTESTINAL WORMS— TAPE WORMS. 

The bowels of sheep are often the home of a great 
variety of worms, as round worms, pin worms, tape 
worms, thread worms, etc. 

Causes: — Sheep that are running on pasture, may 
swallow some eggs that have been deposited there, by 



INTESTINAL WOEMS — TAPE WORMS. 497 

any animal tliat they may inhabit. The tape worm, for 
instance, may be dropped l)y man, dog, skunk, hojr, 
rabbit, etc. But the most fre(iuent source from which 
tliey get them, is through the dog. Doss are verv 




THREAD STRONGLE ENLARGED. 

prone to worms, and when their excrement is left upon 
the pastures, tliese eggs from worms are liable to be 
picked up by slieep, in whose intestines they soon 




TAPE WORM. 

develop, and sometimes cause great havoc among the 
flock. 

Symptoms: — The stomach and bowels are sometimes 
alive with worms, without any observable signs, until 
the animal is slaughtered, when myriads of them are 
found, and the sheep previously, to all appearances 
enjoyed excellent health. In general, the symptoms 
noticed are a ravenous appetite, alternating with a 
refusal of food ; or there may be loss of appetite, with 
constipation alternating with diarrhoea, with a desire 



498 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

to eat dirt, sand, ashes, old mortar on walls, etc. There 
is also irritation around the hinder parts, as will be 
noticed by the animal rubbing its rump against fences, 
posts, or other objects. Sometimes worms or parts of 
worms are seen in the excrement that has recently 
passed. A short, dry cough is frequently a symptom of 
worms in the bowels. When there is a falling off in 
condition, from worms, it occurs very gradually, and 
when death claims the animal, it is greatly emaciated. 
Treatment: — Old sheep are seldom troubled with 
worms. They generally find lodgment in young sheep 
and lambs. The medicinal doses should be varied 
somewhat, giving lambs one-half as much as required 
for a young sheep. For round, and thread worms, 
take 

Raw Linseed Oil two ounces. 

Spirits of Turpentine one ounce. Mix. 

Give at one dose, to be repeated every four days 
until four doses are given. For the expulsion of tape 
worm, take 

Powd. Areca Nut one drachm. 

Oil Male Fern fifteen drops. Mix. 

Give at one dose in half pint of water, to be followed 
in twelve hours, with 

Epsom Salts three ounces. 

Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of water. Another remedy 
which is just as effective is to deprive the animal of 
food for three or four days, and during that time give a 
handful of hulled pumpkin seeds, ground, three times a 
day. At the end of the fourth day give a physic, as 

Epsom Salts three ounces. ' 

Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose in a pint of water. When the 
worms are passed they should be destroyed by burning. 



THE ROT — LIVER ROT, ETC. 499 

THE ROT— LIVER ROT— FLUKES IN THE LIVER. 

This disease is produced by- a flat worm, of a whitish 
color, varying in size from a half inch to an inch in 
length and one-fourth to three-eighths of an inch in 
breadth, which seeks the internal organs for develop- 
ment, and more especially the liver. It is propagated 




Liv;;:-: hot. 
by means of eggs, which are deposited in the bowels 
and pass away with the manure, and through various 
sources it is conveyed into pools of stagnant water, 
where they pass one stage of their existence, possibly 
in the bodies of snails, water insects and sliell-fish. As 
it is most prevalent duriii;:; rainv seasons it is reasonalde 
to presume that the meadows become inundated, and as 




FLUKES. 

the waters from these pools become scattered over con- 
siderable surface, these flukes are left upon the grasses, 
where they again enter the animal for final develop- 
ment. As they are taken into the stomach they pass 
on until they enter the gall duct, passing from that into 
the gall sack, then to the liver, where they complete 



500 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

their development. The disorder is rarely seen where 
sheep are grazed upon upland pastures, but is quite 
prevalant on lowland pasturage, especially during rainy 
seasons, when there is frequent inundation. 

Symptoms: — When sheep are first affected with flukes 
they are inclined to take on flesh very rapidly for a 
short time ; when this ceases, emaciation or failing in 
flesh, commences. An examination of the eye ball 
should now be made. In the healthy animal the mem- 
branes covering the eye-ball and eye-lids are a pink or 
reddish color, in fact, so much so that an amateur 
would suppose there was inflammation of the eyes; but 
when affected with flukes this membrane is of a pale or 
yellowish color. This is a symptom that never fails 
when the sheep is affected with flukes. As the disease 
progresses the appetite becomes irregular, but the 
demand for water increases. Dropsical swellings now 
appear; a large, watery tumor is noticed under the 
lower jaws, the back becomes prominently arched, the 
skin looks pale and bloodless and is tightly drawn to 
the frame. The wool is dry and harsh and separates 
very readily from the skin, leaving bare spots. A 
diarrhoea now sets in, caused by disorganization of the 
liver. The flanks look hollow and there is a weakness 
or tenderness across the loins. The eyes are very 
yellow, or jaundiced. The whole system is now 
deranged. The breath imparts an offensive odor and 
the poor animal lies with its head outstretched, wear- 
ing a solitary and forlorn look, until death claims it as 
a victim. When the animal commences to run down 
the course of the disorder is very rapid and fatal. 

Treatment: — The treatment should depend more upon 
prevention than upon a cure by medicinal agents, for 
when rot has reached the stage of thorough development 
and great emaciation, with a jaundiced appearance, 



THE ROT — LIVER ROT, ETC. 501 

medicines will avail but little. As flukes cannot 
develop at certain stages of their existence upon dry, 
upland pastures, it is well to graze the flock upon hilly- 
pastures, fencing off all ponds of stagnant water, or 
draining them and watering the sheep from wells. 
Should a flock become affected with flukes, but not to 
the extent of injuring them materialy, it is best to 
fatten and dispose of them. It is a well established 
fact that sheep affected with flukes will live and thrive, 
but as to the amount their system can tolerate without 
serious injury cannot be definitely ascertained. That 
flukes are an established destructive factor in this 
country cannot now be denied as over one hundred of 
them were found in the liver of a single rabbit, in Minne- 
sota, and they have also been found in deer and other 
animals, saying nothing of the number of sheep that 
have perished, the owners at a loss to know the cause, 
i'ommon salt is known to be a preventative and 
destroyer of the flukes, at certain stages, and it should 
be given quite liberally; and as turpentine is very 
penetrating to the system, entering every crevice, and 
is a great destroyer of worms, it should enter into every 
combination in the treatment of this disease. The sheep 
should not be allowed any food for three or four hours 
either before or after giving the medicine. The follow- 
ing formula has been used in England, with remarkable 
success : 

Yellow Resin. 

one and one-half drachms. 

Spts. Turpentine 

one and one-half ounces. 

Calomel ... eighteen grains. 

Tincture Iodine thirty drops. Mix. 

Give at three doses, one every morning, for three 
consecutive mornings,, in a little gruel. Or you may give 



502 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

Raw Linseed Oil two ounces. 

Spts. Turpentine half ounce. Mix. 

Give at one dose, and repeat every four days, until 
four doses are given. Or 

Saltpetre two ounces. 

Powd. Ginger one ounce. 

Salt one pound. 

Boiling Water three quarts. Mix. 

Dissolve thoroughly, then add spts. turpentine, tea 
ounces. Shake well before using. Give a wine- 
glassful every fourth morning, until four doses are 
given. When sheep are known to have become affected 
with flukes from certain pastures, it is best to plow up 
those meadows and raise other crops for two or three 
years, to destroy the parasite, and where it is at all 
possible, it is best to graze sheep upon dry, upland 
pastures, with a provision of pure, fresh drinking water. 



LOCKJAW. 



It is seldom that lockjaw, or tetanus, is found among 
sheep, but as it is a nervous affection, it may be pro- 
duced by fright from being chased with dogs, or by 
injuries or wounds from any source, when nearly or 
wholly healed upon the surface ; or it may be caused in 
lambs, from cutting off the tail, or it may result from 
castration. 

Symptoms: — The head is elevated and the eye- 
washers will protrude over the eye-ball to a greater or 
lesser extent. The animal will appear very nervous, 
and walk with a stiff, stilty gait. The jaws are closed 
but can be moved sidewise and sometimes opened a 
little ; there is also some grinding of the teeth and more 
or less desire for drinking water, of which little can be 



FRACTURES. 503 

swallowed, as the throat is affected. In some instances 
the head is drawn around to the side, while in others it 
is drawn upwards. 

Treatment : — Remove to a dark, quiet place and first 
give a physic, as 

Epsom Salts two ounces. 

Water half pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose, to be followed with 

Bromide of Potassium ... two ounces. 

Chloral Hydrate one ounce. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Give a wineglassful three times a day. If you can- 
not drench the sheep without too much excitement, take 
a syringe and squirt the preparation well back into the 
mouth. Use extra precautions not to excite the animal, 
and allow no one to go near it but yourself. If it can 
eat or suck any soft food, give all it desires, and also 
allow plenty of drinking water. If the disease results 
from a wound or from castration, grease the injured 
parts once daily witli solid extract of belladonna. Quiet 
and warmth are very essential to effect a cure, as some 
will recover with good nursing, without the use of 
medicines. 



FRACTURES. 



Broken limbs sometimes occur where a flock of sheep 
is going over a fence ; an animal may become fastened 
between the bars and thus be crowded on by the balance 
of the flock, or injuries of this character may result from 
being kicked or trampled upon by horses and cattle, 
and in various other ways, too numerous ' to 
mention. The bones will readily grow together, 
if fastened with splints and bandages, first getting 
the bones in proper position, the ends directly 



504 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

opposite each other. Tlie splints should be wrapped in 
cloth or cotton batting, to prevent ohaling and the 
bandages should not be so tight as to prevent free circu- 
lation of the blood ; they should be examined frequently 
to see that they are in position and not too tightly 
drawn, and they should be worn for three or four weeks. 
It is not always necessary to confine the sheep, as they 
often do as well at pasture, but if confined, feed soft food. 



CONSTIPATION IN LAMBS. 

Constipation in lambs is generally brought about by 
feeding on cows' milk, or the milk of another ewe. 
When the disease occurs, the bowels cease to act, or 
that which does j)ass, is hard and lumpy, and there are 
long intervals between each passage, with considerable 
pain, the back arched, and heavy straining, when the 
discharge does take place. The lamb lies down most of 
the time. The urine is scanty and the belly distended. 

Treatment: — This consists of injections of warm milk 
or water into the rectum or last bowel ; three or four 
ounces should be injected at a time, and this should be 
repeated every hour or two, until the bowels move 
freely. To do this properly, seize the lamb by the hind 
legs and elevate it so that it barely stands on its front 
toes; hold it in this position while giving the injection, 
and also for a few minutes afterwards. Give internally 
every six hours, until the bowels are relieved, a dessert- 
spoonful of castor or raw linseed oil. If the lamb seems 
dull and inactive after the bowels have responded, give 
small doses of sweetened hot brandy or whisky. 



DIARRHOEA, OR WHITE SCOURS IN LAMBS. 

Diarrhoea in the suckling lamb, is often called 
"White Scours." 



DIARRHCEA, OR WHITE SCOURS IN LAMBS. 505 

Causes; — It may result from lying on cold, damp 
grovind, exposure to storms, sudden changes of tempera- 
ture, cold drinks, etc. ; but the most frequent source, is 




AVIilTE SCOURS IN LAMBS. 

the altered condition of the mother's milk, when fed 
upon thrifty succulent grasses, or upon roots, as turnips, 
carrots and mangels. When not arising from these 
causes, there is a disordered condition of the lamb's 
stomach. 

Symptoms : — There will be a watery discharge from 
the bowels, of a whitish color, which is the indigested 
milk passing straight through the intestines. Some- 
times the discharge is of a pale, greenish color, very 
much resembling whey. This is produced by indigestion, 
the food becoming coagulated in the stomach, where it 
may accumulate in quite large quantities. The 
lamb now appears stupid and ceases to play with 
other lambs. It lies around considerably, and 
when standing, it is doubled up and the back 
is arched. It ceases to nurse or eat, but ap- 
pears thirsty, and makes frequent efforts to pass 
du«g. ' While lying around, it will bleat frequently, 
and upon pressing on the belly, it evinces pain. The 
belly lias a shrunken or tucked-up appearance ; the 
animal loses flesh rapidly, and if not relieved, dies 
within a few days. Worms in the bowels will some- 
times cause diarr!i(jea, but when this is the case, the 
dung will be mixed with slime or mucous. 



506 DISEASES OF SIJEEP. 

Treatment: — When caused by the ewe's milk, change 
her diet immediately. Place her upon dryer food or 
poorer pasture and give the lamb, two or three times a 
day, the white of an egg beaten up with five times the 
amount of warm water, to which may be added a few 
drops of laudanum. Or, 

Raw Linseed Oil two ounces. 

Essence of Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give a teaspoonful once or twice daily; or take 

Prepared Chalk one ounce. 

Powd. Catechu four drachms. 

Powd. Ginger two drachms. 

Powd. Opium half drachm. 

Peppermint Water one pint. Mix. 

Shake well before using and. give two teaspoonfuls 
morning and evening. When resulting from worms, 
give 

Raw Linseed Oil one ounce. 

Spts. Turpentine half ounce. 

Laudanum ten drops. Mix. 

Give at one dose. If at any time there is great 
weakness, give 

The Whites of four Eggs. 

Whisky two ounces. 

Tincture of Ginger half ounce. 

Linseed Tea half pint. Mix. 

Give a tablespoonful every three or four hours. 



LUNG WORMS— HOOSE IN LAMBS— PALE DISEASE- 
HUSK. 

Causes : — There is no question but that these worms 
gain access to the wind-pipe and lungs of lambs, but the 
manner in which they gain entrance to these organs of 
young animals, is not yet solved. The disorder usually 



DIARRHCEA, OR WHITE SCOURS IN LAMBS. 507 

makes its appearance during the fall months and i? by- 
far the most prevalent among lambs that graze upon 
lowland pastures which are subject to inundation from 
the rise of waters during the fall rains and which are 
covered with rich, succulent, rank grass. 

Symptoms: — The presence of these worms in the 
wind-pipe causes much irritation and coughing. While 
they do not always inconvenience grown sheep, they are 
a frequent source of death among lambs. These worms 
often accumulate in such quantities in young lambs as 
to prevent proper aeration of the blood in the lungs, 
which causes a general disturbance of the whole system 
and produces a pale, bloodless condition. The appetite 
is partially or wholly lost, the lamb loses flesh rapidly 
and if not relieved, quickly succumbs. When these 
worms affect the bowels, as they sometimes do, 
dysentery will be observed, with bad-smelling passages, 
which are etfected with much straining, and blood-clots 
will sometimes pass. The worms vary somewhat in 
size, being from one to three inches in length, thread- 
like and slender, and of a whitish color. When any 
number of lambs are affected, an examination of the 
passages of dung as well as the mucous from the 
nostrils, should be made, in order to detect the worms 
if possible ; or if one of the animals should die, inspect 
the windpipe carefully and if worms are observed, com- 
mence treatment at once. 

Treatment: — As preventative measures are always 
the best, the lambs should not be allowed to graze upon 
pastures that have received a tojj-dressing of sheep 
manure, nor allowed to graze upon pastures which have 
recently been trodden upon by old sheep. Fresh 
pastures only should be used and in damp, rainy seasons 
sucli as are hilly or well drained should be chosen.' An 
abundance of salt should be given, or better still, have 



508 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

rock salt in the field continuously. Medicinally, these 
worms must be attacked from two sources, viz., by the 
administration of remedies internally and by inhala 
tions. Give internally, 

Raw Linseed Oil seven ounces. 

Spts. Turpentine one ounce. Mix. 

Give two tablespoonfuls every morning on an empty 
Btomach, until four doses have been given. Or, 

Spts. Turpentine one ounce. 

Whisky fifteen ounces. Mix. 

Shake well and give a tablespoonful every morning, 
for a week or ten days. Inhalations of sulphurous acid 
gas, should be given as follows : Place the lambs in a 
room where the ventilation is not too great, then take 
half pound of flour of sulphur and a quart of pine tar, 
mix it with tow or waste and set it to burning. If the 
gas becomes too strong for you to endure, step out and 
remove the fire with you. Repeat this twice daily for 
a few days. The food sliould now be the best that can 
be procured, and if the appetite has completely failed, 
give linseed meal, oat meal, or corn meal gruel, as a 
drench, until the appearance of returning appetite and 
strength. 



SEDIMENT IN THE URINE— SAND IN THE URINE. 

Causes : — Formations and accumulations of a sandy 
deposit in the urine, are brought about by high feeding,, 
or being grazed upon dry pastures without a sufficient 
supply of water. Resulting also from being fed upon 
grain quite freely during the winter season, without a 
necessary amount of water, or from a changed condi- 
tion of the system, when recovering from lingering 
fevers, etc. 



CLAP, OR GONORRH(EA. 50^ 

Symptoms: — It seldom causes any inconvenience witli 
ewes, as their opening for the passage of urine, is large 
and free, but among rams and Avethers, on account of 
the smallness of the urinary passage, it often causes- 
considerable annoyance, by becoming deposited and 
adhering to the sides of the canal. Sandy or muddy 
deposits are observed in front of and around the sheath, 
clinging to the wool or hairs where the water has passed 
through, sometimes to the extent of forming small 
stones. Symptoms of retention of urine now appear. 
The sheep exhibits great uneasiness and pain, while 
trying to pass urine, and the passage will be a very 
email stream, or possibly only drop by drop. 

Treatment: — When first noticed, allow plenty of fresh 
water to drink, to which may be added a teaspoonful of 
acetate of potash, once or twice daily, for a week, to 
increase the flow of urine and wash out the material. 
But if the urine passes only by drops, lay tl>? sheep on 
its rump and draw out the penis, press the fingers along 
this organ and try to force out the accumulation. This 
should be repeated daily, until the passage of water is 
free. Give internally, 

Kaw Linseed Oil three ounces. 

Laudanum twenty drops. Mix. 

Give at one dose. If this treatment fails in removal, 
the deposit may be cut out, the incision being made 
lengthwise along the penis ; but unless the ram is 
valuable, it had best be slaughtered and used for 
mutton. In case of a wether being afi'ected, use for 
mutton at once. 



CLAP, OR GONORRHOEA. 

This disease is brought about in sheep from want of 
cleanliness, with an excessive amount of ewes to attend 
to, or by serving a ewe that is affected with the whites. 



510 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

Symptoms: — The sheath and penis of the ram become 
SAvollen and sore, and intense pain is exhibited while 
passing the urine, which may pass by only a few drops 
at a time. Soon a whitish discharge comes from the penis, 
which, if left undisturbed, will cause ulcerous sores. 
There will be more or less stamping of tlie feet while 
passing water and more or less uneasiness is observed. 

Treatment: — Remove the ram to a quiet place and do 
not allow him to serve any ewes, as the disease is very 
contagious and will be imparted to the ewes. Admin- 
ister internally, 

Balsam Copabia two ounces. 

Tr. Cubebs two ounces. 

Tr. Kino one ounce. 

Spts. Sweet Nitre one ounce. 

Laudanum half ounce. 

Syrup one and one-half ounces. Mix. 

Give a teaspoonful three times a day. Withdraw 
the penis and bathe with the following lotion, after 
bathing with hot water : 

Sugar of Lead one ounce. 

Sulphate of Zinc one ounce. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Use once daily. In addition to the bathing, part of 
the solution may be injected into the penis once daily, 
until convalescence is established, when every third or 
fourth day will suffice. If any of the ewes become 
affected syringe them once daily with the above solu- 
tion, or use the following : 

Permanganate of Potash. . ..one ounce. 

Water one quart. Mix, 

Inject either into rams or ewes, once daily. The 
food should be soft and easily digested, as bran m.ish, 
grass, etc. vStimulating diet should be avoided. 
Further, give ounce doses of raw linseed oil daily. 



LAMBING IN THE EWE. 



511 



LAMBING IN THE EWE. 

Farmers residing in the Northern States, usually cal- 
culate to have their lambs yeaned in April and the fore- 
part of May, as there is less danger from loss, than if 
yeaned earlier in the season. ' But the percentage of loss 
during the lambing season, is greater than there is any 
necessity for, through negligence or carelessness, and 




TWm LAMBS. 

the want of places of protection for the ewe and lamb. 
Many lambs are lost each year by the ewe not being in 
a proper condition. There is much less danger from 
the ewe being in a good condition, even fat, than 
from being too poor. Dogs are also a source of 
great loss among lambs, and should not be allowed 
near a flock, at this season of the year. The flock should 
have a good, dry yard, so that they can move about in 
the sunlight, and a good shelter with iDlenty of ventila- 



&12 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

tion, for the night. The owner or shepherd shouki be 
familiar and well acquainted with his sheep, thus insur- 
ing confidence and not fear, among them. Patience is 
required on the part of the sliepherd. Do not be too 
meddlesome, but see to those that are in labor, and if the 
lamb is coming right, with forefeet and head first, leave 
her alone for a considerable time, tlien if you deem the 
lamb too large, render some assistance, but do not 
become rash and use too much force ; gentle traction, 
with the parts well-oiled or greased, is much better. 
When the hind parts swell up and look red, and the bag 
■swells and looks full, you may rely upon it, the ewe 
will drop her lambs within thirty-six hours. It is then 
the shepherd should be on the alert, to see that nothing 
goes wrong. Ewes as a rule, deliver their young 
without any serious difficulty, but occasionally a lamb 
is presented wrong, when it would be impossible for the 
ewe to deliver her young without assistance. Under 
these circumstances, the lamb should be pushed back 
i to the womb and straightened. If you can raise the 
hind feet first, do so, and deliver in that position. The 
various methods of delivery as laid down for mares and 
<;ows in another part of this work, will greatly aid the 
shepherd, and should be followed ; the only exception 
being that in the attendance of a ewe, a small hand is 
required, and for this reason, a woman can do more 
effective work than a man. The hand should be well 
oiled before entering, and the movements should be 
■slow and careful ; hasty and rough help, is worse than 
none at all. Always raise the feet first. If the forefeet 
are raised, see that the head lies between them and is 
not doubled back. If the afterbirth does not come away 
voluntarily after the lamb is delivered, pull upon it 
.gently, and it will usually be expelled in a short space of 
time. Should the ewe appear weak and exhausted, 



AFTER-PAINS IN EWKS, ETC. 513 

make and administer a ginger tea, of the same strength 
as you yourself would require. 



AFTER-PAINS IN EWES— PARTURIENT APOPLEXY. 

Parturient apoplexy occurs within four days after 
lambing and is most frequently seen in fat, thrifty 




AFTER-PAINS IN' EWES. 

animals that are also heavy milkers. It is the result of 
a fevered condition at the time of lambing. 

Symptoms: — The ewe is lirst noticed to be panting as 
if hot and feverish. Heavv str lining follows, with a 




PARTURIENT APOPLEXY. 

heaving at the flanks. The eyes look staring and glassy, 
the bowels are constipated, the urine is high colored 
and smells strong. The external hinder parts are 
swollen and red and later on become purple or black. 
After death the womb is noticed to contain pus or 
matter; sufficient of this has been absorbed or taken 
into the system to poison the blood and cause death. 

Treatment: — Prevention in these cases is always the 
best and safest. As it is most always found in very fat 
ewes, the safeguard lies in reducing their condition 
prior to lambing, but not to the extent of weakening 



514 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

them. Their food should be gradually reduced and a 
light bran mash should be given daily. After the dis- 
ease has developed and pains are noticed, prepare the 
following: 

Quinine Sulph one drachm. 

Laudanum one ounce. 

Whisky three ounces. 

Water four ounces. Mix. 

Give one ounce three or four times a day. If a bad- 
emelling discharge comes from the hinder parts, they 
should be cleansed with 

Permanganate of Potassiun 

one drachm. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Syringe the vagina and womb with this mixture 
twice daily, until the discharge stops. Give one ounce 
of glauber salts daily to loosen the bowels, but do not 
physic. Apply warm cloths to the belly for a day, then 
in their stead apply a mustard plaster. The food should 
be light and easily digested, as bran mash, linseed meal 
or oat meal gruel. 



INVERSION OF THE WOMB. 

This is not a common atHiction among sheep, but 
sometimes results from difficult labor, more especially 
in a weak ewe. The womb is turned inside out and 
hangs behind as a large, red sack, to which the after- 
birth is sometimes attached. When the after-birth 
still clings to it, it should be gently removed and the 
womb washed in milk-warm water, to which may be 
added a little alum. Then elevate the hind parts and 
gradually work the womb back into its place, but first 
cut off the finger nails and oil or grease the hand thor- 
oughly so as not to injure the delicate structure. After 



GARGET — INFLAMMATION OF THE UDDBR. 516 

the organ has been replaced fasten a bandage around 
the hinder parts to prevent a recurrence, or as is some- 
times practiced, put a deep stitch through the vulva or 
lips of the outer parts and allow it to stay so for twenty- 
four hours, when it may be removed, as the womb will 
by this time have settled into its natural position and 
will there remain. Should the ewe exhibit signs of 
pain or attempt to strain, give thirty drops of laudanum 
every hour until the pain ceases. If she appears weak 
give ginger tea or half-ounce doses of hot brandy. 
"While she is lying down see that she is well bedded and 
that her hind parts are elevated higher than her head, 
for a few days. For illustration, see inversion of the 
womb in cow. 



GARGET— INFLAMMATION OF THE UDDER. 

This consists of intiammation of the milk glands, and 
is caused from ewes lying on the cold, damp ground ; 
resulting also in such as have lost their young and have 
not adopted an orphan or been supplied with a foster- 
lamb. It is also produced by a teat not being opened 
by a new-born lamb, or in ewes that give a greater flow 
of milk than the lamb will consume. The bag may also 
become gargeted at weaning time, when the ewe is 
giving a strong flow of milk, and if neglected it becomes 
festered and is soon a tumbling, rolling mass of maggots. 

Treatment : — When the disorder is first noticed give 
a mild physic, as 

Epsom Salts two ounces. 

Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose in half pint of water, to be followed 
with drachm doses of saltpetre, morning and evening. 
Bathe the bag for thirty minutes with hot water, then 
apply camphor and lard twice daily, or take 



516 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

Copperas four ounces. 

Water two quarts. Mix. 

Apply frequently. Or, 

Witchhazel five ounces. 

Tr. Arnica one ounce. 

Tr. Belladonna one ounce. 

vSpts. Camphor one ounce. Mix. 

Apply twice daily, after bathing with hot Avater. 
Injecting the teats with a solution of carbonate of soda, 
then milking out, will be productive of good. If the 
bag has festered, open it and allow the matter to escape, 
then wash the sore with 

Carbolic Acid one ounce. 

Soft Water one quart. Mix. 

Or, 

Permanganate of Potassium . one ounce. 

Soft Water one quart. Mix. 

Apply twice daily. If maggots have gained access 
to the sore, apply some spirits of turpentine to rout 
them, after which, keep clean, and use the carbolic 
acid solution. If the disease has resulted in the perma- 
nent loss of one or both teats, the animal should be dis- 
carded as a breeder, and either kept for her wool or sold 
to be slaughtered. 



ABORTION— SLIPPING OF LAMBS. 

Abortion is not of frequent occurrence among sheep, 
and when it does happen, it is generally traceable. It 
may result from being chased by dogs, or from injuries 
received while in the yard with other stock ; from 
drinking an abundance of ice-cold water, also from 
eating large amounts of cold carrots, turnips and 
mangels. ' The stomach becoming distended with the 
cold food, lowers the temperature of the internal 



PARTURIENT FEVER, ETC. 517 

organs to such an extent that it causes the death of the 
young animal, and it is thus expelled from the womb. 
Feeding upon blasted or smutty rye, as well as slipping 
upon icy roads, will produce abortion. 

Treatment: — In this case, also, prevention is the only 
safeguard against loss. Great care should be exercised 
when feeding roots ; they should be moderately warm, 
or fed in limited quantities. See that the ewes are not 
chased, worried, or excited by dogs or any other sheep- 
<lestroying animal. Avoid feeding smutty rye, and 
driving over slippery roads. Allow them to drink 
regularly, to avoid engorgement with ice-cold water. 
When abortion does take place, see that the membranes 
Jill come away and if the sheep seems stupid and sluggish, 
give a mild pliysic, as 

Raw Linseed Oil two ounces. 

Laudanum f irty drops. Mix. 

Give at one dose, to be followed twice daily with 
iirachm doses of saltpetre. 



PARTURIENT FEVER— PUERPURAL FEVER— MILK 
FEVER. 

This fever rarely attacks our common ewes, but is 
Foen among imported sheep, that are highly fed and in 
a fat condition, and are middle-aged, usually carrying 
twin lambs. It generally occurs a few days prior to 
lambing. The earliest symptoms, are loss of appetite, 
twitching of the hind legs, and of the ears. The ewe 
appears dull and stupid, with weakness, and staggering 
gait while walking. The eyes are drowsy, the head is 
carried'" low down ; a dark, offensive, coffee-colored 
discharge comes from the vagina or hinder parts.;' If 
the lamb is now dropped, it is dead, and possibly in a 



518 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

semi-putrid condition, but if the lamb is not passed, the 
patient grows steadily worse, the fever rises higher, the 
animal moans with pain and the discharge becomes 
more offensive. When the lamb does eventually come, 
it is almost rotten. 

Treatment : — Remove the ewe from the balance of the 
herd to comfortable quarters, as soon as noticed. Then 
give a laxative to open the bowels, as 

Epaom Salts two ounces. 

Saltpetre one drachm. 

Warm Water, or Linseed Gruel ..... 

one pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose. Should she feel disposed to eat 
anything, give nothing but warm gruels or mashes. 
When the discharge is dark colored and offensive, the 
lamb is certainly dead, and should be removed as 
quickly as possible. Wash out the vagina with warm 
water, then place some solid extract of belladonna on 
the end of the finger, and smear it on the mouth of the 
womb, making an application in this manner every two 
hours. This will cause the mouth of the womb to dilate, 
when the putrid lamb will be expelled. The womb should 
then be washed out with. 

Permanganate of Potash. . . one ounce. 

AVarm Water one quart. Mix. 

Or, 

Carbolic Acid one ounce. 

Warm Water one quart. Mix. 

Use with a syringe. Also give internally. 

Quinine Sulphate three drachms. 

Sulphate of Soda two ounces. 

Saltpetre one ounce. Mix. 

Make eighteen powders. Give one powder every 
three hours. Should the physic not operate in fifteen 
hours, repeat the dose. Mustard drafts along the belly 



CA8TBATI0N. 519 

are very beneficial. Should collapse seem imminent, 
give ounce doses of hot whisky. See that the position of 
the patient is as comfortable as possible; supply with a 
oJean bed, at least twice a day. 



CASTRATION. 



This is a very necessary operation among lambs and 
should be performed as early as possible after lambing-, 
as there is' less danger followino; than when the laiiil)S 
are older. When the lamb is a week or ten days old 
the whole sack, seeds and all, may be cut off with one 
stroke of tlie knife or shears, without being attended 
with any danger, and only a few drops of blood will be 
observed to follow. But when the lamb has passed a 
few months the seeds develop very rapidly, the blood 
vessels and nerves are large, and the operation is 
attended with more danger. The seeds are to be drawn 
well down, then one bold incision, cutting into the seed 
and down to the point or bottom of the sack, should be 
made. The seed should then be withdrawn and pulled 
away forcibly, or the cord should be scraped with a 
knife until it separates ; otherwise, the clamp should be 
used. If the latter method is chosen, fasten the clamp 
very tightly, then cut off the seed half an inch below it 
and allow it to remain for three days, when it may be 
removed. The clamps may be hollowed out a little in 
the center and a small quantity of corrosive sublimate 
and lard placed in the groove. In castrating aged rams, 
scraping is not always safe, as the seeds are very large 
and the blood vessels correspondingly so and there is 
therefore danger of bleeding in this manner of^ opera- 
tion. Neither is ligating or tying them with a string 
advisable, as it is sometimes impossible to tie tightly 
enough to prevent bleeding. But when the clamps are 



520 DISEASES OF SHEEP. 

pressed on firmly bleeding seldom follows and for tliis 
reason this method is considered the safest and best 
mode of operation. Always see that the opening is 
clean down to the bottom so that all matter can escape. 
To prevent too rapid healing, place a block of wool in 
the wound. 



DOCKING, OR CUTTING OFF THE TAIL. 

This operation is performed in order to keep the 
hind parts of the sheep in a clean condition, as those 
sheep which are allowed to carry a full tail become very 
dirty from accumulation of urine and manure, which 
adhere to the wool around these parts and form a nest 
for the blow-liy and macgot. Tiie operation should 1)6 
performed while the lambs are very young — within two 
weeks after birth. The j)arts are not then very sensi- 
tive and consequently the operation is not very painful. 
The method is quite simple, yet mistakes are often 
made. When the lamb is caught the skin should be 
drawn up on the tail, toward the rump, so that afrer 
the tail is severed it will cover the bone, then with a 
sharp knife make a quick cut, about two inches from 
the rump, and the operation is complete. A little pine 
tar placed on the stump of the tail will keep off flies 
and assist in healing. 



DISEASES OF THE HOG 

THEIR 
CAUSES. SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT. 



HOG CHOLERA. 

There are so many diseases of the swine wliich have 
never been any too thoroa;j;hly understood, that have 
been, for the want of a better term, called hog cholera. 
The loss to the farmers in this country alone, has been 
estimated at fifty millions in a single year, and all have 




' ^3?-l%?*'^!^^§i"V'-^isrp.- ..-s^'r "'^^■ii 



HOG CHOLERA. 

been grouped under the one head — cholera. Let us for 
a few moments, briefly consider the manner in which 
swine have been treated, when deemed in health, and 
see what our own condition would be, under like 
circumstances. In the first place, the creature is 
considered — a hog — and that means, literally speaking, 
anything that is filthy and dirty. ' History tells us that 
the hog, in the natural or wild state, is one of the 
cleanliest of animals, so if the appellation, as applied to 
the hog, means filth and dirt, it must be an unnatural 
condition or innovation, brought about or inflicted upon 

(521) 



522 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

the animal, throiifrh domestication. It is perfectly true, 
that hogs will wallow about in dirty water, in order to 
cool off the fevered or heated body, in summer, but if 
allowed to select for itself, it will not only drink of 
pure, clean water, but will lie in it also. Again, pen 
up a hog and give it good shelter and a bedding of clean 
straw to lie upon, and see if it will litter up its own bed ; 
on the contrary, if a place is provided outside of its stall, 
it will go there to comply with the demands of nature, 
and deposit both manure and water. There are many 
other habits of the hog, tliat tend to cleanliness which 
might be mentioned, but space forbids, in a work of 
this kind. I believe that many of the diseases wl;''h 
swine are heir to, have been brought about through 
domestication, and the manner in which they are cared 
for and fed, the so-called cholera included. The average 
hog is fed on sour swill, sour grain or corn, distillery 
slop, corn that has already been eaten and passed by 
cattle, that which has been trampled through dirt and 
dung, in fact anything that is of a dirty, sour nature, 
has been considered good enough to feed to the hog. 
Now the essence of sourness is vinegar, which is formed 
in the food after the alcoholic fermentation has run its 
course. The first effect from feeding this sour food, is 
constiiDation, followed by looseness or diarrhoea, super- 
induced by the paralyzing effects of the alcohol, vine- 
gar, carbonic acid gas, etc., upon the bowels. After a 
time, the blood becomes affected through this vinegar 
yeast and various diseases are produced. Just so long 
as hogs are fed upon dirty, sour, indigestible food, 
trouble with the bow^els must be expected, of a more or 
less severe nature, according to circumstances. When 
the hogs are penned up, clean the pens daily, the same 
as you would your horse stables; feed them upon clean, 
sweet food,*and disease will become less frequent. If 



CHARBON, OR ANTHRAX. 523 

^.he food is cooked thoroughly, the heat will destroy the 
alcohol and vinegar plants, and the danger of disease 
will be greatly lessened. To say that hogs fed upoa 
sweet, sound food could not contract diseases, would be 
mis-stating facts, but hogs that are fed on sound, sweet 
corn, well steamed, are not so liable to become diseased 
as those which are fed upon sour materials, and if those 
who are interested doubt these statements, they cau 
easily prove or disprove them, by trials accurately con- 
ducted. The various formulas that have been tried 
with good results, all have a tendency to tone up and 
•correct the bowels ; to prevent the formation of germs, 
and to destroy any that are already existing. I will 
now dwell somewhat upon the various forms of cholera, 
although the treatment tends to the same purpose — that 
of correcting the bowels, and destroying and preventing 
the formation of germs. 



CHARBON, OR ANTHRAX. 

This disease, which eliects both cattle and sheep, 
also finds a co-partner in the liog. It is brought about 
in a similar manner — by taking very thin hogs and 
fattening them too rapidly, but more frequently in the 
hog, by feeding upon sour material, or by being kept in 
filthy places. It is one of the various types of blood- 
poisoniiig, caused by a bacilli or other germ finding 
ingress into and developing in the circulating fluids of 
the body. The malady is contagious, the contagion 
being given off by the blood, flesh and dung. 

Symptoms : — The symptoms develop very rapidly. 
At first there will be loss of appetite and great prostra- 
tion, with red and l)lnish spots appearing on various 
X)arts of the body. Tlie ears and nose have a bluish 
•cast, the breathing is quickened and painful and a 



524 



DISEASES OF THE HOG. 



pleading cry, or squealing, is often heard. Jnst as the- 
hog breaths its last, a passage from the bowels, coming 
involuntarily, is always observed. These symptoms, it 
will be noticed, last from one to forty-eight hours. 
Others m the apoplectic form, have been seen to step 
back from the feeding trough, utter a squeal, turn 
around, tumble over and die in less than a minute. As 
this disease has often been mistaken for contagious 
pneumo-enteritis, I will give the distinguishing char- 
acteristics between the two, as laid down by Dr. Klein, 
of London ; then with the following table before him, the 
ordinary careful observer can scarcely make a mistake : 



CHARBON. 

Period of development 
or hitency from a few hours 
to three days. 

Easily transmissible to 
other species of animals. 

Spleen always enlarged 
arid often broken down. 

]5lood after death, dark 
and lluid. 

i.'ncillus anthricus in the 
blood. 



Lungs and bowels fre- 
quently not implicated. 
Cough may be absent. 

The discoloration local 
and of a true carbuncular 
appearance. 



CONTAGIOUS PXEUMO-ENTEK- 
ITIS. 

Period of development 
from two to five days and 
more. 

Rarely and with diffi- 
culty transmitted to other 
species. 

Spleen rarely enlarged 
or otherwise changed. 

Blood after death of 
ordinary appearance. 

No bacillus anthricus in 
the blooi, but numberless 
bacilli in the serum of 
thorax and abdomen. 

Lungs and l)owels always 
both inflamed ; cough al- 
ways present. 

The red or purple color 
diffused over the surface 
and of an erysipelatous ap- 
pearance. 



CONTAGIOUS PNEUMO-ENTERITIS. 52& 

Treatment: — As there is no specific remedy for this 
disease, the necessity for preventative measures becomes 
apparent. The healthy should be separated from the 
sick at once and turned into a fresh pasture where 
there is nn abundance of fresh water. The food i^iven 
shoukl be sweet and steamed or cooked, and limited in 
quantity and the person attending them should not go 
near nor have anything to do with the all'ected ones. 

As has been remarked before, it is very contagious, 
being taken from the blood, flesh and manure. It is 
therefore necessary to Iniry all dead animals, very 
deeply ; also throw lime upon the carcass prior to cover- 
ing; or burn them up, manure and all, then thorouglily 
disinfect the place with carbolic acid or chloride of 
lime, and do not allow any otlier liogs near the locality 
that season. 



CONTAGIOUS PNEUMO-ENTERITIS. 

This form of cholera consists of an inflammation of 
the lungs and bowels, causing red or purple spots on the 
skin and it is very contagious. 

Causes: — There are many causes assigned to this 
disease, among which are feeding in close, filthy, foul- 
smelling pens and compelling the animals to drink 
water that is highly impregnated with decaying animal 
or vegetable matter ; also feeding and keeping in low, 
damp, swampy, malarial places, feeding upon sour 
food, as swill from a sour barrel, distillery slop, sour or 
musty corn, or corn that has passed through cattle, or 
dirty food of any description. It may also result from 
feeding too higlily on rich, concentrated, heating, 
nutritious food, producing a sudden fattening of the 
animal, whereby tlie blood Vie'.'omes surcharged with 
incompletely transformed material. Whether these are 



5i() DiSEA-<:<:s of th:: hog. 

the real causes or not they are certainly conditions that 
should be remedied or avoided, as animals kept in such 
a state will have more or less bowel trouble, which 
renders them very susceptible to any contauious diseases, 
whether brought about by contact or through atmos- 
pheric causes. As the poison which produces this dis. 
ease is a vegetable germ, so small as not to be observed 
with the naked eye, it may be produced or developed 
in the filthy material, as administered to the hog, or 
carried for a considerable distance through the air and 
locating itself with those animals that are in a condi- 
tion to receive it. After it has once gained a foothold 
in a herd, its contagious character is soon developed and 
none need doubt the nature of the disease, as all hog3 
in the herd, regardless of age, size, sex or condition, 
fall a prey to the malady. 

Symptoms: — The symptoms vary, according to the 
part of the animal affected, whether it is of a severe 
type or not. To this fact especially I would refer the 
reader's attention so that the varying forms will not 
confuse him. 

The Erysipelatous Form. 

This is the most common of the different forms of 
the disease. The animal appears dull, with loss of 
appetite. If standing, the head hangs low down and it 
scarcely moves unless pushed by other hogs, and some- 
times efforts at vomiting are observed. It generally 
lies down and when in that position can scarcely be 
moved. Cough is sometimes present, the urine is high 
colored and passed with great difficulty; the bowels are 
somewhat constipated and what dung is passed is very 
hard and dark colored. In a few hours or possibly the 
n^xt day, the symptoms peculiar to this form develop 
themselves in the shape of dark red or purple blotches. 



CONTAGIOUS PNEUMO-ENTERITIS. i2 i 

gradually passing into a bluish black color. Wlie.i 
once seen they are not readily forgotten. These spots 
usually appear on the ears, throat, neck, breast and 
inside the forelegs. On white hogs the spots are readily 
observed, A discharge of dark purple lluid oozes from 
the notrils, the breathing becomes more difficult and 
labored, the hind parts become paralyzed and if the 
animal is forced to move it reels along with its head 
and hind legs drooping to the ground. At this stage a 
bad smelling diarrhoea sets in and the animal dies in 
from one to tliree days. 

Form of Maligfnant Sore Throat. 

This form occurs when the poison attacks the tissues 
beneath the lining membrane of the throat, instead of 
the tissues beneath the skin. The general symptoms at 
first, are the same as appear in the erysipelatous form. 
The dark red spots are seen upon the throat, gradually 
changing to a dark purple. But the affection attacking 
the throat, causes great difficulty in breathing and swal- 
lowing and gives rise to another lot of symptoms 
peculiar to this form, which are not seen in the erysi- 
pelatous condition. From the very commencement, the 
animal makes frequent attempts to vomit and there i-.- 
difficulty in swallowing; there is such effort inbreathing, 
that one would naturally suppose the animal was chok- 
ing; in fact, it becomes so distressing, that the animal 
Bometimes sits upon its haunches and gasps fort breath, 
while the swollen and livid tongue protrudes from the 
mouth. Sometimes the swelling in the throat is so great 
and sudden, and the animal is choked to death in such a 
short space of time, that the other symptoms remain 
unobserved, or have hardly had time to develop theni- 
Belves. 

Treatment: — While the treatment of cholera has not 
been just as successful as we would desire it to be, yet 



528 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

many farmers alloAv their hogs to go unattended, and 
let them die, when a little time and the expenditure of 
a small amount of money, might save them hundreds of 
dollars. When the symx)toms are very pronounced, 
with a loss of appetite, there is but little hope for 
recovery, and owing to the contagiousness of the trouble, 
they had better be knocked in the head, and burned or 
buried; but those that will eat, should be treated by 
some of the remedies which have proved successful in 
the hands of some of the greatest hog raisers in the 
country. First and above all things, separate the 
healthy from the sick, and place them upon fresh, green 
pasture where there is an abundance of pure, fresh 
water. Feed them upon clean, sweet food, well steamed 
or cooked, and the party attending the sick, should not 
feed nor go near those in health. The sick animals should 
also be kept at a respectable distance. As the causes 
which favor development of this disease have already 
been mentioned, repetition is not necessary. The ani- 
mals should be carefully removed, after which the atten- 
tion should be turned to the procuring of medicines for 
relief, and the destruction of the germs and their 
further development. There are two agents which 
possess great influence in this direction, and of which 
we have positive testimony in regard to their value, by 
their entering into all the various combinations which 
have proved successful in the treatment of this disease. 
They are copperas and chlorate of potassium. The cop- 
peras is much the cheaper of the two, and just as 
etfective as the chlorate. It has been more abundantly 
used, as it hastens chemical changes in the blood, and 
increases the firmness of the spleen. It has proven 
itself a valuable agent, and can almost be considered a 
^specific. A remedy much praised and extensively used 
by western farmers, is the following : 



CONTAGIOUS PNEUMO-ESTERITIS. 529 

Copperas one pound. 

Soft Soap one jrallon. Mix. 

Boil with four jrallons of water. This should be well 
stirred with the food, and is considered one dose for 
twenty-five hogs. When the hogs are eating add a 
solution of two pounds of baking soda to make the food 
foam while it is being consumed. Repeat the dose 
every third day, until three doses have been given. See 
that every hog eats a share of the remedy. If one fails 
to eat remove it to a place by itself and drench it, but 
if too far gone, kill it and put it out of the way. 
Another method of treatment much used in Kentucky, 
and called an infallible remedy, is composed of 

Copperas one pound. 

AVarm Water three gallons. Mix. 

Stir until thoroughly dissolved. AVhen the skin be- 
gins to look rough, or a dark red color, commence iiiiine- 
diately and apply every day, by using it warm — spoui:- 
ing or wetting the skin thoroughly, until it looks smootli 
and the discoloration disappears. If this bathing or 
wetting of the skin be used in connection with the ad- 
ministration of the former remedy, better results will 
undoubtedly be obtained. Professor Turner, of Illinois, 
gives two recipes, either of which, he says, positively 
prevents the disease, and, if given freely in the first 
stages of the malady, will also cure it. They are, 

Flower of Sulphur two pounds. 

Copperas two pounds. 

Madder two pounds. 

Black Antimony half pound. 

Saltpetre half pound. 

Arsenic two ounces. 

Mix with twelve gallons of slop. This quantity is 
Bufficient for one hundred hogs, and when given sepa- 



530 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

lately, the dose is one pint fur each hog. The other 
recipe is 

Common Salt four pounds. 

Black Antimony one pound. 

Copperas one pound. 

Sulphur one pound. 

Saltpetre four ounces. 

Wood Ashes (unleached) ... one peck. 
Mix thoroughly and place in a dry trougli, where the 
hogs have free access to it. Moisten it a little to keep 
from wasting. It has been reliably stated tiiat where 
this has been used, prior to the breaking out of cholera 
in a herd, with a strict observance of cleanliness, it is a 
specific for the prevention of the disease. The other 
remedy which has been previously spoken of, is chlorate 
of potassium, but owing to the cost of the drug, it has 
not been so liberally used. However, I will give a 
recipe, which if made use of, and more especially when 
the throat is ett'ected, will bring about remarkable and 
astonishing results. 

Chlorate of Potassium one pound. 

Water six gallons. Mix. 

The dose is a half pint for each hog, given three or 
four times a day. The local treatment consists in 
bathing the swollen parts with hot water, which should 
have a liberal amount of copperas mixed with it. If 
sore spots break out, use 

Sweet Oil four ounces. 

Spirits Turpentine four ounces. Mix. 

Apply twice daily to the sores. Common smart weed 
has been highly spoken of as a preventative of cholera. 
This plant has been used to a considerable extent by 
physicians for many years, for its curative properties in 
sore mouth, salivation, ulcers, etc., and I believe if it is 
used judiciously among hogs, it would not only act as a 



MALIGNANT EPIZOOTIC CATARRH. 531 

preventative of cholera, but would be beneficial in 
warding off many diseases known by that name. When 
the appetite is not what it should be, feed them enough 
of the weed to make them cough and sneeze liberally, 
and the beneficial results will be observed to follow. 
The way to use the weed, is to make a tea of it and mix 
it with the swill, in such quantities as they will eat. If 
it is desired to keep the weed for use at any season of 
the year, it should be gathered when in bloom, tied up 
into small bundles, and hung in a dry, sheltered place. 
Charcoal, salt, and wood ashes are also efficient in ward- 
ing off disease in hogs. They can be mixed and put in 
a special box or trough, where the hogs have free access, 
whenever they have a desire for it. 



MALIGNANT EPIZOOTIC CATARRH. 

Causes: — This disease, like all others that are pro- 
duced by floating germs, is brought about by having 
the animals in a condition to receive it. It has often 
been observed that good sanitary conditions greatly as- 
sist in warding off all such diseases. Consequently, 
hogs that are kept clean, well housed and fed, and al- 
lowed an abundance of fresh water to drink and to 
bathe in, seldom contract this disease, and if they do, it 
is only in a very mild form. But where hogs are kept 
in filthy pens, and their skins are unhealthy and cov- 
ered with a mass of foul dirt, the act of perspiration is 
checked and extra work is thrown upon the lungs.' ^ So 
also, when hogs are exposed to sudden changes of tem- 
perature,*^ as cold rains, sleet or hail storms ; the process 
of perspiration is checked, and by this means the other 
membranes of the body have a surplus of work to per- 
form, when they become over-taxed and weak, thus fur- 
nishing the proper soil for these floating germs to take 



532 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

hold upon and develop themselves, which they do with 
extreme rapidity. 

Symptoms: — The symptoms vary, according to the 
part of the animal which is the worst atTected. That 
form wherein the nostrils, windpipe, and lungs are the 
portions most affected, will develop a short, hoarse, 
hacking cough, Avith dithcult breathing and a panting 
motion of the flanks. The head is held in a peculiarly 
stretched and somewhat drooping position. The animal 
moves along with a slow, stiff, or tottering gait, and if 
it squeals, a hoarseness of the throat is noticeable. 
Signs of fever are present all the time. Usually, the 
bowels are constipated, but some have a diarrhoea and 
make frequent attempts at vomiting. When the bowels, 
spleen, liver and kidneys are the most aifected, the 
cough is greatly lessened and may be absent; the 
breathing is not nearly so difficult, while the weakness 
and staggering gait of the hind parts, is greatly increased. 
The fever in the one form is equally as high as in the 
other. There is usually at first, constipation of the 
bowels, but as the disease advances toward a fatal issue, 
there is a change to a profuse and badly smelling 
diarrhoea. In some cases, and more especially when the 
kidneys are greatly affected, the hog arches its back at 
the loins, to a very high degree. Sometimes the brain 
becomes affected, as is demonstrated by the animal 
staggering about in a wondering manner and running 
against objects as though wholly or partially blind.® Or 
there may be ulcerating sores on different parts of the 
body, indicating an affection of the lymphatic system. 
The duration of the disease, is from five to fifteen days. 

Treatment: — This implies good care as well as the 
judicious use of medicines. The sick animal should be 
separated from the balance of the herd and provided 
with a clean, dry bed. The apartments should be well 



MALIGNANT EPIZOOTIC CATARRH. 583 

ventilated, avoiding drafts, guarding against undue 
heat and cold, wet and moisture. The sick always need 
pure air in abundance, with clear, frosh water to drink, 
and easily digested, nutritious food to eat. If these 
directions are carefully followed, many will be cured 
which under reverse circumstances, die. The patient 
should be given, as soon as these symptoms make their 
appearance — 

Powdered White Hellebore 

twenty grains. 

Milk half pint. Mix. 

This is a dose for a full-grown hog. For younger 
animals, give a little less hellebore. This will make 
the hog desperately sick for a time, and it will sneak 
away and hide in a dark place. In the course of two or 
three hours, it will come out again and possibly receive 
a little food ; it should then be given three times a day 
for several days, or until a change for the better is 
observed, three grains of tartar emetic, if the trouble is 
located in the nose, windpipe and lungs, and three 
grains of calomel if the disease is mostly in the bowels. 
The medicine can easily be given in a boiled potato, a 
little milk or gruel. Externally apply to both sides, if 
in the lungs, and along the belly, if in the bowels, the 
following blister : 

Powdered Cantharides one ounce. 

Olive Oil four ounces. Mix. 

Boil together very slowly, for half an hour. If the 
one application does not blister tlioroughly, apply again 
the following day, with good friction. When conval- 
escence has been established, give from ten to thirty 
grains of copperas daily, to which may be added thirty 
grains of carbonate of potash, when the lungs have been 
greatly disturbed. In all cases where the bowels remain 
constipated, give 



534 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

Castor Oil one ounce. 

Spirits of Turpentine one drachm. Mix. 

Give in half pint of milk or gruel. The reader should 
distinctly bear in mind that this disease attacks the 
delicate membranes and glands of the body, and it may 
localize itself in various phices, while the symptoms just 
d(-?cribed, are seldom all found in a single hog. Even 
the two forms just spoken of, may be so closely blended 
as to make it hard to distinguish which form predomi- 
nates. However, the treatment is so similar, that no 
fatal mistake can occur. 



APOPLEXY. 

This disease occurs only in hogs that Iiave been 
highly fed and are very fat. Hogs that are cared for in 
this manner, are, very liable to congestion of the brain, 
which may pass rapidly on to eftusion or apoplexy. 
During the congestive stage, which may last a few hours, 
the hog acts very stupid and moves around in a drowsy 
condition, but when it merges into effusion, and the 
apoplectic stroke occurs, the animal drops as suddenly 
as if knocked on the head with a sledge; the limbs 
straighten out and stiffen, the breathing is hard and 
stentorian, and there is a frothing and foaming at the 
mouth. 

Treatment : — This should be very prompt. Dash cold 
w^ater on the hog, and also hold a can six or eight feet 
above it and let the cold water splash and strike the 
head for some time. Hasten the movements of the 
bowels, by giving injections of warm water and castile 
soap, or if at hand, the following injection may be 
used : 

Glycerine one drachm. 

Water half pint. Mix. 

Inject up the last bowel; or 



EPILEPSY, OR STAGGERS. 535 

Epsom Salts three ounces. 

Spirits of Turpentine .... two drachms. 

Soapsuds half pint. Mix. 

Bleeding and blisteriu^j do no special good, and 
should not be practiced. When the animal shows signs 
of recovery, give 

Epsom Salts three ounces. 

Water half pint. Mix. 

Kepeat every three or four hours, until a good physic 
is produced, then change the diet to a lighter quality, 
to reduce the flesh. If fattening for slaughter, after 
recovery takes place, butcher it immediately. 



EPILEPSY, OR STAGGERS. 

This disease is often confounded with apoplexy, to 
which it bears a striking resemblance, but as the treat- 
ment is about the same, it makes but little difference 
to the amateur practitioner. 

Symptoms: — The disorder is caused by congestion of 
the brain, and during the stage of congestion, the ani- 
mal is both stupid and restless. The eyes present an 
inflamed appearance, looking quite red. The pulse is 
hard and quick, and the bowels are usually constipated. 
These symptoms may gradually pass away, or they may 
increase in force, which latter phase will surely result, 
if the blood pressure increases on the brain, A period 
of excitement is then brought on; the animal walks 
about or runs to and fro, sometimes moving around in a 
circle, frequently stepping very high, and running 
against various objects as though it were blind ; or, it 
may fall over in an unconscious condition. The breath- 
ing is somewhat aflected, being hard and laborious. ' ' 

Treatment; — Dash cold water quite freely all over the 
body, splashing it upon the head with considerable 
force. Give an injection immediately, composed of 



536 Diseases of the hog. 

Glycerine two drachms. 

Water half pint. Mix. 

Inject this into the last bowel. Or, 

Epsom Salts four ounces. 

Spirits Turpentine two drachms. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Inject up the last bowel. Blisters applied to the 
back of the neck, are frequently attended with bene- 
ficial results. The following will suffice : 

Spts. Turpentine two ounces. 

Hartshorn one ounce. 

Cantharides two drachms. Mix. 

When applied, rub thoroughly. Hogs affected with 
epilepsy, should be fattened and slaughtered as early 
as possibly. 



CATARRH, OR SNUFFLES. 

This consists of an inflamed condition of the lining 
membranes of the nose and head, brought about by 
exposure. It requires but little attention further than 
good care by keeping in clean, dry, warm, well ven- 
tilated pens, carefully avoiding further exposure for the 
time. Open the bowels with a warm bran mash, to 
which may be added three or four ounces of epsom or 
glauber salts. There is, however, a chronic form of 
catarrh which affects hogs, called nasal gleet, in whicii 
there is a continuous discharge from one or both 
nostrils. It is not contagious and causes but little 
harm outside of the annoyance to the animal. If it has 
been running for a continued length of time, the nose 
may swell some and from the efforts to clean the 
nostrils by sneezing, streaks of blood will sometimes be 
observed. This is called by some, blue-nose^* and is 
thought to be contagious and incurable, resembling 
glanders in the horse, which is a very erroneous and 



COUGHS AND COLDS. ' 537 

mistaken idea; but when the ailment advances to a con- 
dition Avhere there is bleeding from the nostrils, such 
animals so allected do not thrive well and had better be 
destroyed. 



COUGHS AND COLDS. 



An ordinary cold is in some localities called a 
^'rising of the lights," and is brought about by any of 
the ordinary measures, as sudden changes of tempera- 
ture, exposure, etc. 

Symptoms : — The appetite is somewhat impaired — 
sometimes wholly suspended. There is more or less 
coughing and often the cough becomes quick and severe. 
Fever is usually present, accompanied with panting or 
heaving at the flanks. 

Treatment: — It is quite unnecessary to bleed and 
purge, or administer calomel and tartar emetic, which 
is commonly advised and frequently followed. The 
animal should be housed in comfortable quarters and 
cleanliness should be strictly observed. The throat and 
«hest should be rubbed with mustard thinned with 
water to the consistency of thick cream. Feed the 
animal upon light, warm, easily digested food, into 
which should be mixed thirty grains of copperas, three 
times a day. Also administer 

Chlorate of Potassium one ounce. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Give a wine glassful three times a day. Or, 

Pine Tar one pint. 

Water one gallon. 

Mix thoroughly, and give a pint morning and 
evening. 



688 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

QUINSY— STRANGLES— TONSILITIS. 

This is an inflammation of the glands in the upper 
part of the throat, known as the tonsils. It is quite a 
common complaint among hogs, and very often fatal, 
death being caused ])y the rapidity with which the 
swellings increase, thus completely closing the upper air 
passages, causing sutfocation. 

Symptoms: — The symptoms are well pronounced, dis- 
tressing and rapid. Breathing and swallowing are 
performed with the greatest difficulty. Swellings appear 
under the neck and lower jaw, and as these swellings 
enlarge, the breathing is performed with increased 
labor, the tongue protrudes, and there is more or less 
slavering from the mouth. 

Treatment : — As the disease progresses very rapidly, 
the treatment must be correspondingly so, otherwise a 
fatal termination may be looked for. A number of 
incisions should be made into the skin with a sharp- 
pointed knife, immediately over the swellings, deep 
enough to draw the blood quite freely. These should be 
well bathed with hot water, or cloths wrung out of hot 
water should be applied. Internally administer, 

Epsom Salts four ounces. 

Water half pint. Mix. 

Give at one dose, if the hog can swallow, to be fol- 
lowed with two-drachm doses of spirits of turpentine, 
every three hours, in a little milk or gruel, and if it 
cannot swallow this, take 

Turpentine two ounces. 

Sweet Oil two ounces. Mix. 

Fasten a cloth on the end of a limber whip-stalk or 
green bough, dip it into the mixture, and force it well 
back, around the upper part of the throat. Repeat this 
two or three times a day. 



DIARRHCEA, OR SCOURS. 589 

CONSTIPATION. 

This atfection is most frequently observed in young 
pigs that are too highly fed, and more especially upon 
dry grain food. Sows are sometimes constipated after 
the delivery of a lot of young pigs. In this case it is 
brought about by the change of condition in the system, 
the animal being more or less feverish. When hogs are 
constipated, they exhibit a great desire for drink, and 
the appetite is partially suspended. 

Treatment : — This consists of a complete change of 
diet. Feed hot bran mashes, to which may be added 
some flaxseed meal. Give some green food, as green 
clover; or turnips, carrots, apples, sweet beets, etc. 
Also allow a liberal amount of charcoal; it will greatly 
assist digestion, which is an auxiliary to the relief of 
constipation. If these fail to bring about the desired 
result, give two or three ounces of eysom or glauber 
salts, and repeat if necessary, until the bowels are 
relieved. 



DIARRHOEA, OR SCOURS. 

Hogs are very seldom troubled with this complaint, 
but young pigs are quite liable to attacks of diarrhoea, 
which often terminate fatally. It is usually brought 
on by a changed condition or bad quality of the mother's 
milk. 

Treatment :— The efforts should be directed toward 
effecting a change in the condition of the milk. Change 
the sow's food immediately. If slie has been kept upon 
dry, sour, or musty diet, give her green food; or if from 
too much green food, give her clean, sweet, dry food, to 
which should be added 



540 DISEASES OF I'HE HOfi. 

Anise Seed one pound. 

Gentian half pound. 

Baking Soda half pound. 

Powdered Chalk one pound. 

Sulphur half pound. Mix. 

Give a tablespoonful in her slop, three times a day. 
Great care should be taken to keep the youngsters 
warm. It is very important that the pen be cleaned 
every day, and scattered over with slacked lime or dry 
earth, to absorb and destroy the smell arising from their 
passages, as it has a tendency to aggravate the com- 
plaint. 



AGUE CAKE— SPLEEN ENLARGEMENT— SPLENITIS. 

Hogs which are raised and kept in low, swampy, 
malarial districts, are subject to the same complaints as 
human beings and from continued attacks of ague are 
quite liable to have enlargement of the spleen or milt. 
While in this condition it is almost impossible to fatten 
them. Or again, the continuous fattened condition of 
hogs which are kept for exhibition purposes, in connec- 
tion with high feeding and little or no exercise, event- 
ually brings about enlargement of the spleen, where- 
upon the animals commence to lose flesh and it will be 
found impossible to hold them in the condition the 
keeper or owner desires. 

Symptoms: — There is a gradual and preceptible loss 
of flesh, apparently unaccountable. The hog eats fairly 
well, but fails to take on flesh and appears somewhat 
dull and languid. As the spleen enlarges, it is observed 
to lie always on the one side, or should it lie down on 
the opposite side it very quickly changes its position, 
and when walking it leans or doubles to one side as if 
the natural position caused internal pain. 



blPHTHERlA. 541 

Treatment : — The object in treatment is the reduction 
of the size of the spleen. This can be accomplished by 
a change of climate, which is not a profitable proceeding 
in hog raising. The medicinal treatment calls for a 
brisk physic, as 

Jalap ten grains. 

Calomel ten grains. Mix. 

Give in a boiled potato, on an empty stomach, to be 
followed with ten grain doses of quinine, three times a 
day for a week or ten days. Change the hogs to dry, 
upland pasture, also feed grains sparingly. Some 
veterinarians recommend very strongly in cases wherein 
the fattening process is interfered with, the use of 

Wormwood Leaves one pound. 

Liverwort Leaves one pound. Mix. 

Boil slowly in two gallons of water for an hour, and 
give half pint to a pint daily, in soft food. Feed the 
hogs at regular intervals and be careful not to give too 
much at a time. If, after feeding, any food remains in 
the trough, remove it. 



DIPHTHERIA. 



This disease, like many others which affect hogs, has 
been classed under the head of cholera, presumably on 
account of the suddenness of its symptoms and its 
extreme fatality. It is more frequently caused by filth 
than any other source and once breaking out in a herd, 
owing to its contagiousness, it spreads very rapidly and 
is very destructive. 

Symptoms : — These appear very suddenly. The animal 
ceases eating, the throat appears very sore, accompanied 
with extreme weakness and stiffness across the back. 
The eyes appear dull and sunken, the hog moves around 
very slowly, with the head elevated and the mouth 



542 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

open. The tongue is dry and livid and the throat red 
and swollen, with grayish white spots scattered over the 
upper part of the throat. These increase very rapidly 
until the whole air passage is involved, threat|kning 
strangulation. There is more or less coughing and 
during a paroxysm of coughing, shreds of false mem- 
branes are expelled. 

Treatment: — This must be prompt if attended with 
success. Separate the sick to a respectable distance 
from those unaffected, and see that the whole herd is 
put in a clean, dry place. Give those hogs that have 
been exposed, 

Chlorate of Potash one pound. 

Water two gallons. Mix. 

This will make one dose for seventy-five hogs and 
should be given once daily for a week, in milk, slop or 
water. The sick hogs should have sulphur applied to 
their throats three times a day. This can be accom- 
plished by tying a cloth or sheepskin with the woolly 
side out, upon a stick, filling it full of sulphur and 
forcing it back around the upper part of the mouth. Or 
use a spray for throwing powders. For those that still 
continue to eat a little, place drachm doses of chlorate 
of potash in their food, and give to such as do not eat, 

Glauber Salts six ounces. 

Carbolic Acid two drachms. 

Chlorate of Potash two ounces. 

Water one quart. Mix. 

Give one ounce, three times a day. Feed upon warm, 
thin, sloppy food and keep in a dry, airy comfortable 
place. 

TRICHINOSIS— TRICHINA. 

As no remedy has yet been discovered which is capa. 
ble of destroying this parasite, it is only necessary to 



TRICHINOSIS — TRICHNA. 



543 



speak of it, to warn people against eating pork that has 
not been thoroughly cooked or fried. The hog does not 
appear to suiter materially when affected witli this 
parasite, hence its presence can only be determined by 
niicropcopicnl examinations of the llesh. They are so 




TRICHINA AND CYST GREATLY ENLARGED. 

small as not to be observed with the naked eye, yet 
they increase with wonderful rapidity, developing 
ilike in all animals, man included, upon gaining access 
to the stomach; here the«worm becomes freed from the 
;yst that it has occupied, through the process of diges- 

w:li 




MUSCLE WITH ENCYSTED TRICHINA. 

tion ; the male and female pair and each female then 
lays a vast number of eggs, which develop into little 
worms that burrow around through the flesh until they 
become encysted. There they remain until they are 
eaten again and find their way back into the stomach, 
where they again reproduce. It has been estimated 



544 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

that from one million to five million have been dis- 
covered in a single pound of flesh. When man becomes 
affected -with trichina, it jn'oduces symptoms very sim- 
ilar to typhoid fever. 



MEASLES. 



There have been several causes assi<2;ned to this dis- 
ease, such as feeding upon certain articles of diet, as 
nuts, fruits, etc., as well as hereditary tenden- 
cies and contagion. It has been called measles, from 
the striking resemblance of the flesh of the hog, to the 
eruption of measles on the human skin. The real cause 




MEASLES Df PORK. 

is tapeworm, which the hog possibly eats while feeding 
on human excrement, or pasturing upon ground which 
has been fertilized with this kind of manure. After the 
eggs are taken int« the stomach, they develop into a 
worm a;id find their way into the muscles, where they 
become encysted. These cysts are about the size of a 
grain of wheat, and they are scattered throughout the 
entire system. When pork that has measles, is eaten 
without being thoroughly cooked, so as to destroy this 
parasite, tapeworm will develop in the human bowel, 
and grow to various lengths, from ten to sixty feet. 
The symptoms of measles, are general debility, cougli, 
mnning from the eyes: discharge from the nose, nnd 
weakness of the hind legs. Small, watery pustules of a 



PILES. 



545 



reddish color, will be observed on various parts of the 
skin. The treatment consists in giving drachm doses of 
sulphur and saltpetre, every day for several weeks, 
together with good, nutritious and easily digested food. 




TAPE WORM.- 

But prevention is always bettor than medicinal treat- 
ment, therefore, keep hogs off from such pastures and 
away from human excrement, especially if any one of 
the household is known to have been ail'ected with tape- 
worm recently. 

PILES. 

This complaint is of more frequent occurrence than 
is usually supposed, but is rarely discovered until blood 
is seen passing away with the dung. It is caused by 




PILES. 



indigestion, constipation, etc., and is generally consid- 
ered incurable. But to relieve the animal as much as 
is possible, in order to fatten it for slaughter, an entire 



516 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

change of food should be given, such as light, easily 
digested food, with some sour milk. Grease the parts 
frequently with benzoated vaseline, or 

Vaseline two ounces. 

Tannic Acid • four drachms. Mix. 

Apply twice daily. Or inject the bowels with 

Chlorate of Potassium ... six drachms. 

Laudanum two ounces. 

Water four ounces. Mix. 

Apply twice daily ; or simply greasing the parts 
with vaseline or common lard, is beneficial. Such hogs 
should not be kept for any length of time. 



KIDNEY WORMS, OR LARD WORMS. 

The kidneys and the lard surrounding them, are 
liable to become affected with parasites, many of which 
are found in the fat in other parts of the body. These do 
not cause any serious harm, but sometimes a large worm 
called the Eustrongylus Gigas, makes its nest in the 
pelvis or center of the kidney from which the secreted 
urine flows. 

Symptoms: — The animal is inclined to lie down most 
of the time, and on attempting to rise, experiences 
difficulty in using its hind parts, which seem in a par- 
tially or wholly paralyzed condition. If it regains its 
feet, it moves about with an awkward, straddling gait. 

Treatment : — That which has generally been practiced, 
is the application of turpentine across the loins, daily 
for several days ; but as turpentine is good for the 
destruction of worms, it is better to give it internally, 
as a spoonful twice daily, mixed with oil or milk. 
Another remedy highly recommended, is 

Copperas two drachms. 

Sulphur two drachms. Mix. 



LICE. 547 

Give in the feed, every night for ten days. How- 
ever, the turpentine will reach them quicker and be 
more effectual than anvthin"- else. 



LICE. 

There is no earthly reason why hogs should be infested 
with this most disgusting parasite, when a little care 
and attention will free them from the terrible annoy- 
ance resulting. As a usual thing, they are not found 
upon hogs that are healthy and thriving, but may be 




nOG LOUSE. 

found pomewhat abundantly upon hogs that are half 
starved, or are badly out of condition. Their presence 
causes excessive irritation and itching, and prevents 
hogs from thriving that would otherwise do well on the 
same amount of food. 

Treatment : — As lice belong to a low order of life, it 
is not only necessary to destroy them with medines, but 
if a permanent cure is to be expected, the whole pen 
will have to be renovated. The bedding must be taken 
out and burned, and the walls well white-washed. The 
floor should be covered with air-slacked lime, or wood 



548 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

ashes, and the animal kept clean and well fed. Also, 
to place the hogs in a better condition, give draehm 
doses of copperas and sulphur, once daily in their food. 
Externally use the following wash : 

Stavesacre Seeds half pound. . 

White Hellebore two ounces. 

Water two gallons. Mix. 

Break up the seeds and place over a fire, slowly 
simmering down to one gallon. Bathe the hogs with 
this solution every third day, until three applications 
have been made, barely wetting the skin. As the nits 
hatch out every five days, you will effectually destroy 
them all, before there is time for a reproduction of more 
nits. Or use 

Coal Oil two quarts. 

Lard Oil, or Whale Oil one quart. Mix. 

Apply every three days, until three applications 
have been made. In some parts of the country, liogs 
are bathed in buttermilk, to exterminato lice. But the 
first recipe here given, will be found more effectual 
than anything else. 

THE MANGE— ITCH, OR SCAB. 

This disease is caused by the presence of a parasite 
called the Sarcoptes Suis, and is transmissible to man. 
These small parasites burrow down into the skin, 
causing such annoyance that the animal keeps rubbing 
itself until scabs are formed. The insects have a great 
tenacity of life, and are communicated to other hogs by 
rubbing against posts where mangy hogs have rubbed 
and left some scabs. 

Treatment: — This consists of external applications 
mainly, as there is no possibility of effecting a cure, 
until the insect is destroyed in its entirety. First, 
cover the whole body with soft soap, which has been 



THE MANGE — ITCH, OR SCAB. 549 

made from lye of wood ashes, and let it remain on for 
two hours, then wash off and immediately apply, 

Flower of Sulphur four ounces. 

Spirits of Turpentine two ounces. 

Oil of Tar two ounces. 

Lard eight ounces. Mix. 

Or the following wash may be used : 

Flower of Sulphur two pounds. 

Quicklime one pound. 

Water two gallons. Mix. 

Boil together, continuously stirring it until it is well 
n»ixed, Mr. Richardson gives the following remedy 
which he says has never failed. He first washes the 
animal with soft soap and warm water, then dries it ofl" 
and applies this ointment : 

Train Oil one pint. 

Oil of Tar two drachms. 

Oil Turpentine two drachms. 

Petroleum one drachm. 

Mix with flower of sulphur, suflicient to form a thick 
paste, then thoroughly rub the animal with this mix- 
ture, and allow it to remain on the skin for three days. 
On the fourth day wash off with soft soap and water, 
and give in the food once daily for two weeks, 

Flower of Sulphur four drachms. 

Saltpetre one drachm. Mix. 

Give at one dose. The pens should be washed with 
coal oil, and afterwards white-wash also those posts or 
rocks where the hogs have been in the habit of rubbing. 
Tiie bedding should be burned, and a thorough renovat- 
ing system adopted. 



550 



DISEASES OF THE HOG. 



DELIVERY AND CARE OF YOUNG— PIGGING. 

The uterus, or womb, of the sow differs but little in 
shape from that of other animals, that bear one or more 
off-spring at each time of delivery. > But in all mul- 
tiparous animals or animals that produce a number of 
young at each birth, conception does not take place in 
the body of the womb itself, but in various places 
along the channels which lead to the ovaries or female 
testicles. After conception has taken place these 
channels commence to enlarge, as also does the womb, 




A.— Vagina, or Entrance. 

B— Body of Woinb. 

C— Foetus, or j'<amg pier exposea. 

D. -Fcetus, or j'oung pig covt-red. 

to allow suflBcient room for the perfect development of 
the young pigs, as well as to insure their safe delivery. 
They are covered with placental membranes or after- 
birth, and are nourished through these and the umbil- 
ical cord, from the blood of the mother, the same as all 
other young animals, prior to birth. The period af 
pregnancy usually lasts about four months, but perfect 
development and a safe delivery may take place at a 
much shorter period, as instances have been recorded 
where sows have delivered living and healthy young at 



DELIVERY AND CAEE OF YOUNG PIGGING. 551 

one hundred and four days after service. When the 
time has about arrived for the delivery of her young, 
the sow should be placed in a separate pen or sty and a 
liberal amount of short straw or chaff allowed for bed- 
ding, as in a large l)edding of long straw the youngsters 
may become entangled and not have the strength and 
activity to get out of the way of the mother, while 
changing her position; thus she might accidentally lie 
upon some of them and crush or kill them. It is a good 
plan to place a scantling or plank about five or six 
inches high, all around the pen, projecting outward 
from four to six inches, then should the sow lie too close 
to the wall and some of the young pigs should happen 
to be in that vicinity, instead of being crushed they 
would slip into the space under the projection and thus 
escape injury. The sow should be kept in a place 
that is moderately warm, yet it should have good venti- 
lation. When the day of delivery has arrived, if every- 
thing is normal she should not be disturbed, but given 
a good allowance of nourishing and easily digested food, 
as they generally suffer from weakness and prostration 
immediately after delivery. If this is allowed them 
and they are not irritated by the presence of people, 
they are less likely to devour their young. If, how- 
ever, they cannot effect delivery alone, manual assist- 
ance becomes necessary and this should be rendered 
very cautiously and carefully. An examination should 
be made with the fingers, which have previously been 
well oiled or greased with clean lard. If one of the 
young pigs lies crosswise it must be straightened, which 
can sometimes be accomplished by pressure along the 
belly and by assisting with the fingers in the vagina; 
or enlist some assistance from a person that has a small 
hand, as a boy or a woman. Have the person oil or 
grease their hands well, then carefully pass it up the 



552 DISEASES OF THE HOG. 

channel until the little creature is felt, then straighten 
it and also fasten a cord around its neck or hind feet, 
whichever is the most convenient, then apply gentle 
force or traction until it is delivered. Do not be rough 
or use too great force, but if need be, pass the hand at 
frequent intervals to be certain that it is straight. 
After it is delivered, no matter whether it be living or 
dead, allow sufficient time to elapse (say an hour or 
more) when she may proceed and deliver the remainder 
without assistance. If not, proceed in the manner as 
before described, until all are delivered. There are 
various instruments or forceps invented to assist in the 
performance of this act, but in the hands of an amateur 
they are somewhat unsafe as he might fasten onto the 
womb along with the young pig and tear it, thus 
endangering the life of the sow to a degree uncalled for. 
But if manipulated by a small hand and cord, there is 
much less danger. If there is much prostration in the 
sow following delivery, give half ounce doses of hot 
whisky every hour for a few hours, as well as the best 
nourishing, easily digested, warm food, to which may 
be added half ounce doses of glauber salts, three times 
a day. Keep her comfortable and warm and if consti- 
pation follows, give her a few injections of warm water 
and castile soap. If the womb is badly irritated, you 
may inject the following into the womb : Take one 
drachm of powdered opium and steep it thoroughly in 
a quart of hot water, then add one drachm of per- 
manganate of potassium and inject four ounces every 
five or six hours. This will allay irritation and destroy 
any foul smell that may be present. At all times allow 
iter what cool drinking water she may desire. 



DISEASES OF THE DOG, 

THEIR 
CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT. 



DISTEMPER. 



Causes :— This is the most fatal of the common dis- 
eases which affect young dogs. There is no doubt but 
that it is contagious, no matter as to the cause of its 
origin. It may be brought on by sudden changes of tem- 
perature, or exposure to cold and wet, and as it usually 
occurs about the time the animal is cutting its perma- 
nent teeth, the irritation produced from this source, 
may greatly assist in its development. Feeding upon 
raw meat, with close confinement, not being allowed 
the liberty of exercise at will, is also an auxiliary to 
the development of distemper. But as it usually attacks 
young dogs, and as they are seldom free from worms, I 
am greatly inclined to the opinion that they are one of 
the principal causes of this malady. 

Symptoms;— The first symptoms observable, will be 
a slight dullness, the animal not appearing in its usual 
lively mood ; the appetite begins to waver. Vomiting 
or attempts at vomiting, with light purging from the 
bowels, are among the earlier symptoms. The eyes now 
begin to look red and tears commence flowing down the 
cheeks. A light, short cough is now noticed, the pulse 
has quickened to possibly one hundred and twenty beata 
per minute, and as the disease advances, mattery 

(553) 



554 DISEASES OF THE DOG. 

accumulations are seen about the eyes and nose, increas- 
ing to a flow of mucous from one or both nostrils. The 
cough now becomes more severe, the hair begins to look 
rough and staring, and the nose is quite hot. If a change 
for the better does not take place at this period, the 
symptoms continue to increase in force; the eyes 
will become almost glued together with matter, the 
nostrils become closed up with a thick, mattery dis- 
charge, and the breath has an oifensive smell. The dog 
now loses flesh very rapidly ; blood streaks will be 
observed around the nose, and partial paralysis of the 
hind legs occurs, which gradually increases until it affects 
the whole body. The poor animal now lies prostrate 
and continues in this condition, until death relieves its 
sufferings. In those cases where favorable recoveries 
are looked for, the symptoms may appear very encour- 
aging for three or four weeks, when a relapse occurs in 
a violent form, and it dies very suddenly ; but when the 
acute symptoms subside and the dog appears to be doing 
well and gains somewhat in flesh, a speedy recovery 
may be looked for. If it fails to gain in flesh and the 
eyelids still present a red appearance, it is not free from 
dangerous consequences. After recovery has become 
complete, it is very seldom they take the disease again. 
There are cases known where distemper has occurred 
the second time, but this is the exception and not the 
rule. 

Treatment : — Place the animal in comfortable quar- 
ters, where it will be clean and dry. Have the place 
moderately warm, carefully avoiding excessive heat and 
cold. Change the bedding frequently and allow plenty 
of pure, fresh air. As regards diet, refrain from giving 
meat altogether; give soft food, as bread and milk, 
crackers and milk, boiled rice, or broth, and clean, 
fresh water to drink. If the lungs are affected, apply 



DIARKIKEA AND DYSENTERY. 555 

a mustard plaster to the chest, over which place a 
blanket. Keep it on for an hour, when it should be 
washed off and greased with a little sweet oil, but if 
considered necessary apply the mustard again ; the dog 
should have a physic, for which the following will 
suffice : 

Castor Oil one ounce. 

8antonine twelve grains. Mix. 

Give half and repeat in four hours, if the first dose 
does not operate. This should be followed with 

Quinine one drachm. 

Copperas one drachm. 

Saltpetre one drachm. 

Gentian two drachms. Mix. 

Make twenty powders or pills and give one three 
times a day. Should the bowels become costive, give a 
tablespoonful of syrup of buckthorn every three or four 
hours until the bowels operate nicely. Sometimes, 
during the course of the disease, the brain becomes 
affected, as is demonstrated by delirium and fits. Pro- 
cure the following as quickly as possible : 

Bromide of Potassiun. . . . two drachms. 

Chloral Hydrate two scruples. 

Water four ounces. Mix. 

Give teaspoonful every two hours until the acute 
symptoms pass away, then give three times a day for 
a few days. 

DIARRHOEA AND DYSENTERY. 

This affection is generally brought on from over- 
feeding or the use of improper food. Severe work on a 
very hot day or sudden change from hot to cold, 
frequently affects the bowels, causing diarrhoea. 

Symptoms : — The first symptom noticeable is the soft 
fluid condition of the passage of the bowels, instead of 



556 DISEASES OF THE DOG. 

being solid, as in health. There is more or less sick- 
ness at the stomach, with an unusual desire for drinking 
water. The breath becomes somewhat offensive, as 
well as the passages from the bowels. The dog appears 
weak, the eyes presenting a sunken appearance, and if 
the animal is left alone it will go away to some cool 
place and lie down most of the time. If dysentery 
appears it will be observed by the heavy straining, 
while passing a thin, liquid substance, which is some- 
what tinged with blood, the last bowel appearing con- 
siderably inflamed. 

Treatment : — First give a mild physic, as a dessert- 
spoonful of castor oil, to carry away any irritant that 
may be causing the diarrhoea, after which allow the 
patient twenty-four hours rest without medicines, as 
it is always desirable to allow the bowels to resume 
their natural functions, which they will often do, with- 
out medical aid. If, after that time has elapsed and 
the disease continues, the following will suffice. 

Laudanum two drachms. 

Tr. Catechu four drachms. 

Tr. Ginger four drachms, 

Tr. Cardamons two drachms. 

Brandy four drachms. Mix. 

Give teaspoonful every two hours. If it nauseates 
the dog, mix it with a little syrup, or take 

Powd. Catechu one drachm. 

Powd. Opium one scruple. 

Prepared Chalk two drachms. 

Powd. Ginger one drachm. Mix. 

Make twelve powders. Give one jjowder in a little 
syrup every four hours. Should the bowels become too 
greatly constipated from the effects of the medicine, 
give a dessertspoonful of castor oil. 



CONSTIPATION — COSTIVENESS. 55T 

CONSTIPATION— COSTIVENESS. 

Causes : — Dogs are frequently troubled with consti- 
pation, without any good, assignable cause. Feeding 
rich food as meats, etc., without sufficient exercise will 
produce it. Occasionally dogs swallow bones that have 
not been crushed thoroughly and they become lodged in 
the last bowel, thus preventing the passage. The dung, 
then dries out and becomes almost as hard as a stone. 
Symptoms: — The dog will be noticed to make fre- 
quent efforts to stool, without anything passing. When 
making the attempts at passage, they will often pant. 
At other times, the pain will be so severe as to cause it 
to yelp quite loudly. It will sometimes lie around con- 
siderably, often panting, and if taken out for a run, it 
will often stop, and strain violently to make its passage. 
Treatment: — L ections into the last bowel, will often 
remove the trouble. These may consist of castile soai> 
and warm water, or use some raw linseed oil, or 

Glycerine half drachm. 

Raw Linseed Oil one ounce. Mix. 

Or in the absence of the oil, use warm water and 
glycerine. Give internally, half an ounce of castor 
oil, or 

Powdered Jalap two drachms. 

Tincture Gentian two drachms. 

Simple Syrup two ounces. Mix. 

Give half, and repeat the dose if necessary, in six 
hours. Lay the dog upon its side and feel along the 
belly towards the hind parts, and you can frequently 
locate the hard lump. By using continuous pressure, it 
can sometimes be forced along the channel to the exit. 
Grease the finger and insert it up the last bowel. If 
you can feel the hardened matter, gradually break it to 
pieces. Or a spoon handle may be used for this purpose. 



C58 DISEASES OF THE DOG. 

If you feel a piece of bone, work around it carefully 
until it is loosened, then work it away. If you have 
tried for some time and have failed to remove all, give 
an injection of oil or grease, and allow the animal rest, 
for two or three hours, then try again. Continue in 
this manner, and you will eventually accomplish your 
object. After you have removed the obstruction, give 
a tablespoonful of castor oil, after which change its 
food, giving soft material for a few days, with plenty of 
exercise. 



COLIC— BELLY-ACHE. 



Causes : — It is usually brought about through some- 
thing the animal has eaten, or exposure to cold and wet ; 
from fatigue and fasting or being fed a heavy meal, 
after a hard day's run. Owing to the ease with which 
dogs can vomit, the overloaded stomach is emptied in 
this manner, thus avoiding many attacks of colic. 

Symptoms : — The dog appears very uneasy and rest- 
less. It will draw its body all up in a heap and roll 
around. It will yelp or cry, without any assignable 
cause, also moan considerably and refuse to eat any- 
thing. The bowels are usually costive and bloating is 
sometimes observed. 

Treatment: — If there is costiveness or bloating, injec- 
tions will be beneficial, as 

Glycerine half drachm. 

AValer, or Oil two ounces. Mix. 

Throw this up the last bowel, or in the absence of 
glycerine, use castile soap and hot water, frequently. 
Bnthe the bowels with heavy cloths wrung out of hot 
water, and give twenty drops of laudanum or a tea- 
spoonful of paregoric in some warm milk or some ginger 
tea, to which may be added a little red pepper. Also 
give a physic, as 



INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 559 

Castor Oil half ounce. 

Or, 

Powdered Jalap one drachm. 

Simple Syrup one ounce. Mix. 

Give at one dose and repeat if necessary in five 
hours. 

iNFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 

This occurs from eating irritating substances in the 
food, also from exposure to cold, or sudden chilling 
when in a heated condition ; from certain poisons, and 
from colic when not given proper attention. 

Symptoms : — These very much resemble colic, but the 
pain is more continuous. There will be great uneasi- 
ness and whining, or brief disconnected cries. Pressure 
applied upon the belly, produces pain. The breathing 
is fast and the pulse is rapid, with a high fever. 

Treatment :— Give twenty drops of laudanum every 
two or three hours, or half a grain of morphine will 
answer the same purpose. Apply mustard to the belly, 
and after it has acted, which will take an hour or more, 
apply hot cloths or a poultice made of hot bran, all 
along the belly. Aconite is good in this disease, there- 
fore give the following : 

Fluid Extract Aconite Root 

one drachm. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Give tablespoonful every hour. Allow ice-cold 
water to drink, in limited quantities. Do not be in too 
great haste to effect a movement of the bowels, but 
give slippery-elm tea or linseed jelly, and after recovery 
has taken place, you may give a tablespoonful of castor 
oil. If the bowels are still costive, give a few injec- 
tions of warm water. 



560 DISEASES OF THE DOG. 

FITS— EPILEPSY. 

Fits are very often seen in the dog, on account of the 
liigh state of development of the nervous system, it 
being very tense and acute. Anything th-^t will produce 
an irritation of the intestinal canal, is liable to produce 
fits, as indigestion, worms, etc., or it may be caused 
from some brain affection, as blood pressure, tumors, or 
injuries causing pressure upon the brain, etc. 

Symptoms : — These, when once seen, are not readily 
forgotten. The dog will fall over and move its lega 
violently. There is champing of the jaws and frothing at 
the mouth. This may last for only a minute or possibly 
several minutes, when suddenly the animal rises, looks 
rather bewildered for a short time, then appears all right 
again, until another fit comes on. If the fits occur very 
frequently, the animal will likely die from exhaustion. 

Treatment : — When fits are observed in young dogs, 
it is well to treat for intestinal worms. If tape- worm 
is suspected, give a wineglassful of pumpkin seed tea, 
on an empty stomach, every four hours until three doses 
have been given, then give half ounce of castor oil, 
or give a drachm of powdered areca nut, and follow it 
up with a physic. Or give two doses daily of finely 
powdered glass, for two or three days, then physic. If 
the fits are caused from some brain affection, use 
Bromide of Potassium . . . two drachms. 

Chloral Hydrate one drachm. 

Water four ounces. Mix. 

Give a teaspoonful every two hours until the patient 
is quieted, then give a teaspoonful twice daily for a 
week or ten days. Sometimes they will disappear and 
not return, but if there is structural change in the 
brain, they will likely terminate fatally. In all cases 
of fits the food should be of such a character as will be 
easily digested and keep the bowels soft. 



COUGHS — CATARRH — COLDS. 561 

GOITRE. 

This consists of a gradual enlargement of the thyroid 
glands, situated on the sides of the neck a short dis- 
tance behind the jaws. These glands in their natural 
condition are small, but when they begin to enlarge, 
which they frequently do, no inflammatory action is 
noticeable, but they gradually increase in size until 
they acquire the proportions of a large goose egg. They 
do not always produce harm, but sometimes they press 
upon the windpipe to such an extent that they interfere 
with the preathing. The treatment consists of painting 
the parts once daily with tincture of iodine, for a con- 
tinued length of time. Also give internally 

Iodide of Potassium two drachms. 

"Water four ounces. iMix. 

Give a teaspoonful twice daily, and the enlarirement 
will usually disappear in the course of two months. 



COUGH— CATARRH— COLDS. 

Dogs that are subjected to exposures of wet and 
cold, more especially in the spring and fall of the year, 
are very liable to catch cold, when they will cough, 
sneeze and run at the nose, and sometimes considerable 
fever will rise, which, if neglected, may develop into 
more serious complications, as lung fever, etc. 

Treatment: — This is very simple and if attended to 
early, no bad results follow. Give two graijis of (luiniiie 
three times a day, in a i)iece of fried or boiled meat, 
and rub the throat well with mustard. Or use 

Raw Linseed Oil two ounces. 

Hartshorn . . . ■ two ounces. 

Turpentine two ounces. Mix. 

Apply to the throat twice daily. If it appears a 



562 DISEASES OF THE DOG. 

little too strong, which it may be for some dogs, add a 
little more oil. Should a bad cough be present, use 

Syr. Squills two drachms. 

Syr. Tolu four drachms. 

Syr. Ipecac two drachms. 

Chloroform ten drops. 

Honey, or Simple Syrup. . .two ounces. Mix. 
Give a teaspoonful three times a day. 



LUNG FEVER— PNEUMONIA— INFLAMMATION OF 
THE LUNGS. 

This disease is generally brought on from exposure 
to cold and wet, changes of temperature, change of 
climate, sudden chilling when heated, neglected catarrh 
or colds, etc. 

Symptoms: — The dog will appear somewhat stupid 
and not inclined to move about very much. The head 
will be held in an extended manner. There is an 
anxious look of countenance and a red or bloodshot 
appearance of the eyes. The breath is hot and the 
breathing painful and accompanied with a slight grunt 
at each expiration. The cough is short and somewhat 
distressing. The animal will frequently sit up for 
hours until through exhaustion, the forefeet slide for- 
ward and it falls down. By applying the ear to its 
sides the various sounds differing from the healthy 
lungs, will be readily observed. 

Treatment : — First place the dog in a good, comfortable 
place, where it is not too cold, and without draughts. 
Bandage the legs and body to keep it moderately warm. 
Allow it all the pure, cool, fresh water it will drink. 
Keep the bowels open and loose, feeding only such food 
as is soft and nourishing, as milk, broth, boiled rice, 
etc. Apply mustard drafts to the sides, rubbing well 



MANGE. f563 

into the hair, and blanket immediately, to retain the 
fumes. Wash off in an lioiir and repeat again, as often 
as you deem it necessary. Internally, give 

(Quinine one drachm. 

Dover Powder one drachm. Mix. 

iMako thirty powders. Give one powder every four 
to six hours. Also get six ounces of mindererus spirits, 
and give a teaspoonful every two hours, ('hango the 
Ledding frequently and keep the surroundings sweet 
and clean. 



RABIES— HYDROPHOBIA— MADNESS. 

As this disease is incurable nothing remains hut to 
destroy the animal. P\)r further particulars see treatise 
on this disease, among horses. 



MANGE. 

Causes: — This is quite a common complaint among 
dogs and is caused by a mite or parasite, of which there 
are different varieties, that burrows into the skin, some 
to a greater depth than others. Persistent treatment 
is called for, and then sometimes the disorder baffles all 
treatment applied. Again the parasites are more 
superficial, even working around among the scabs, in 
which case they are more easily reached and destroyed. 
They are usually transferred from one dog to another 
by the animals running together, or by sleeping in a 
kennel where a mangy dog has been kept, as they 
remain in a dirty kennel for an indefinte length of time. 

Symptoms : — The dog appears out of condition" and is 
not active and bright. The skin is itchy, the animrd 
frequently and persistently scratching itself; or it sits 
down and rubs or scratches until sore spots are formed. 
The parasite usually makes its appearance in the form 



564 DISEASES OF THE DOG. 

of red pimples or eruptions, around the inside of the 
hind legs, along the belly on the under side, around the 
elbows, about the eyes, and eventually spreading all 
over the whole body, when the hair either falls off or is 
scratched or rubbed off in patches, and scabs or scales 
are formed. The skin looks dry, harsh and scaly and 
emits a disagreeable smell, more especially on a damp 
day or if wetted a little. 

Treatment: — As the disease is due to a parasite which 
affects the skin only, internal remedies are not required 
any furtlier than to open the bowels nicely and keep 
them in that condition. For this purpose give half an 
ounce of castor oil, or 

Powdered Jalap one drachm. 

Syrup one ounce. Mix. 

Give at one dose, then wash the dog thoroughly with 
soft soap and water, to remove all dirt and scabs. Dry 
off' well and apply 

Oil of Tar one pint. 

Flower of Sulphur half pound. 

Mix thoroughly and rub it well into the skin, every 
day until four or five applications have been made. 
Wash the dog with soft soap and warm water every 
other day, to allow the medicine to get well into the 
skin. Or use 

Whale Oil one pint. 

Sulphur eight ounces. Mix. 

Apply in the same manner. Clean the kennel 
thoroughly and burn up all straw, old rags, etc., and 
wash the walls with 

Corrosive Sublimate one ounce. 

Water one gallon. Mix. 



CANKER OF THE EAR. 565 

RED MANGE— ERYTHEMA— INFLAMMATION OF THE SKIN. 

This affection usually breaks out on dogs that are 
pampered and highly fed, without sufficient exercise, 
and consists of a breaking; out or irritation of the skin, 
causing considerable itching. The scurf or material 
which oozes out, has a reddish cast, causing the skin and 
hair to assume that color. It is not contagious and 
yields readily to simple treatment, which consists in 
rcMlucing the dog somewhat in flesh. Give a physic, as 
castor oil, half an ounce; or epsom salts, a dessert- 
spoonful ; or 

Powdered Jalap two drachms. 

Simple 8yrup two ounces. Mix. 

Give half and repeat the dose if necessary. Exter- 
nally, wash the skin with tar soap and water, then dry 
it thoroughly, and apply sparingly Friar's Balsam once 
daily for a few days, and a cure will result. Or use 

Sugar of Lead half ounce. 

Sulphate of Zinc four drachms. 

Water eight ounces. Mix. 

Apply twice daily for a few days. 



CANKER OF THE EAR. 

This is generally caused from injuries to the ear, 
either by cuffing it or by hitting it against some object. 
Or it may be caused by getting something in the ear, 
or by being in the water too much. 

'^ Symptoms :— The dog will be observed to shake its 
head frequently and violently, making the ears flap 
and snap around its head. It will also dig and scratch 
in and around the ears with its paws, and sometimes it 
will carry its head to one side while walking. A fou^ 
smell emanates from the ear, and the surrounding parts 
look red, swollen and inflamed. 



666 DISKASES OF THE D0€^. 

Treatment: — If the disease has not been too long 
neglected, it yields readily to treatment. First, refrain 
from giving any meats to eat. Use only soft food, and 
that principally vegetables. Wash out the ear well, 
flaps and all, with either castile or tar soap, and warm 
water, dry it nicely then blow some iodoform into it, 
twice daily. Make a hood to go over the head, to con- 
fine the ears, so that the animal cannot flap or scratch 
them, and they will be well in a few days. Or you may 
pour the following into the ears, twice daily : 

Lead Water three ounces. 

Pure Soft Water three ounces. Mix. 

Use just enough to fill the ears, then apply to the 
flaps of the ears. 

Calomel one drachm. 

Powdered Camphor two drachms. 

Oxide of Zinc Ointment. . . .one ounce. Mix. 
Then fasten on the hood to prevent scratching. 



INLFAMMATION OF THE EYES. 

The eyes of dogs often become inflamed from injuries 
of various kinds, one of the most common being caused 
by the Spanish needle, a species of burr. Hunting dogs 
frequently get these into their eyes, at the inner corner 
beneath the membrane that shoots out to cleanse the 
eye. They may also become inflamed from getting 
dust into them, or many other various ways. 

Treatment: — Make strict search for anything that 
may possibly become lodged in these organs, and if 
found, remove it. The follow^ing lotion will assist 
greatly in the examination : 

Cocaine ten grains. 

Water half ounce. Mix. 

Apply a few drops every thirty seconds, until the eye 



WARTS AND TITMOKS ABOUT THE EYES. 567 

can be handled with ease. To reduce the inflamma- 
tion, use 

Sulphate of Zinc four grains. 

Atropine one grain. 

Water one ounce. Mix. 

Apply a few drops three times a day ; or, 

Blue Vitriol two grains. 

Atropine one grain. 

Water one ounce. Mix. 

Apply a few drops twice a day. 



WARTS AND TUMORS ABOUT THE EYES. 

Small tumors sometimes appear at the inner cornere 
of the eyes. They are generally fastened to the mem- 
brane which shoots out over the eye to cleanse it. They 
sometimes grow so large that they nearly or completely 
cover the eyeballs and they bleed quite easily and pre- 
sent an ugly appearance. 

Treatment : — Apply to the eye 

Cocaine ten grains. 

Water half ounce. Mix. 

Put a few drops into the eye every half minute until 
it can be handled at will, then fasten a hook or pair of 
forceps into the tumor, or in the absence of these, run 
a needle and thread through it, then raise it up gently 
until you can see the whole of it. Take a pair of sharp 
scissors and clip it off, and if it is then left alone, the 
wound will quickly heal. If it does not, however, use 

. Lunar Caustic one grain. 

Water one ounce. Mix. 

Apply a few drops daily for a few days. 



668 DISEASES OF THE DOG. 

WOUNDS AND FRACTURES. 

The feet of dogs often become sore, especiallj' hunt- 
ing dogs that run through long, wet and coarse grasses ; 
also thorns and stubbles, and injury likewise results 
from continued exposures to cold water. Not infre- 
quently the toe nails are torn off. These troubles 
should be attended to as quickly as possible. 

Treatment: — Remove any foreign substances imme- 
diately, then poultice the foot with flaxseed or slippHi y- 
elm until the inflammation has subsided, after which 
apply Friar's Balsam, twice daily, or 

Carbolic Acid two drachms. 

Water one pint. Mix, 

Apply twice daily. Or, 

Sugar of Lead one ounce. 

White Vitriol half ounce. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Apply twice or thrice daily. If the skin is torn 
much it should be sewed up, and any of the foregoing 
solutions applied. When medicines are applied to dogs 
the parts should be bandaged loosely, to prevent the 
animal from licking at the wounds. But if the injury 
is not serious it is just as well to let the dog lick it and 
not apply medicines, as they keep it clean and it heals 
quite rapidly. If any bones are broken, set them 
straight and apply splints and bandage. Use light, 
flexible splints and steep the bandage in thick starch 
watrer before applying. Allow the dog its liberty and 
they will heal in about a month. 



CHOREA. 

This consists of a derangement of the nervous 
system, and, so far, has proven incurable, when exist- 
ing to any great extent. It quite often follows debili- 



WORMS IN THE INTESTINES. 



569 



tatins; diseases, as distemper, etc. The symptoms 
ol)served are a twitching or quick jerking of a certain 
part or set of muscles, more frequently around the face, 
neck and forelimbs. Sometimes only one limb is 
all'ected and again the whole body. Occasionnlly it 
unfits a dog for any kind of work. After this disease 
becomes chronic it is apparently painless, but when 
developing, it is somewhat painful, as demonstrated by 
uneasiness and whining. 



WORMS IN THE INTESTINES. 

The intestines of the dog are more or less troubled 
•with worms. The two principal varieties that affect 
them, are the tape worm and the round worm. The 
latter are mostly observed, as about fifty per cent, of 




I;():iI>K'<EI) r.ol'NI) WORM. 

the dogs oxaniined after death, are found to be infested 
with them. These worms do not always remain in the 
bow^els but often find their way into the stomach, where 




MALE BODKIX-TAILED ROUND WORM. 

they produce great irritation. Nor do they stop when 
they find access to the stomach, but occasionally wend 
their way into the lungs,, throat, windpipe and nostrils, 
creating so much disturbance that they are frequently 



570 jL>ic>iiASES OF THE DOG. 

attended with fits or spasms. The tapeworm is the 
most injurious of all the intestinal worms. They find 
their way into the intestines of the dog, through eating 
the brains of sheep, also from eating rabbits, and through 
many other sources. The tapeworm is in appearance, 
flat, and made up of joints, each joint ranging from one- 
eigth to a half inch in length. The entire length of the 
worm varies from a few inches to several feet. As fast 
as these joints mature, they pass away from the bowels, 




TAPEWORM. 

when they deposit their eggs. These are in turn con- 
sumed by hogs, sheep, rabbits, or some other animal, in 
the intestinal organs of which they hatch, setting free a 
small worm which burrows through the bowels and 
locates itself in some part of the llesh or brain, and there 
becomes encysted, until eaten by some other animal, or 
by some person, when it developes into another tape- 
worm. There are two leading species of tapeworm, 
which infest dogs, but as the treatment is the same, a 
description here is quite unnecessary. 

Symptoms: — Sonictimes dogs will have an abundance 
of worms witliin them, wit'iout any symptom-^ to indi- 
cate tiieir presence, but wlien you observe a dry, short 
cough, a staring coat, a hot and bad smelling breath, 
a craving ap[)etite with a failure to take on flesh in 
proportion to the amount eaten, the bowels irregular. 



WORMS IN THE INTESTINES. 571 

alternately with constipation and diarrhoea, with a 
desire to vomit, and sometimes vomiting worms followed 
by spasms, or frequent fits, the animal presenting a 
woo-hegone appearance, rely upon it, it is troubled 
with worms. If the worms have gained access to the 
nose or throat, the eyes will look red and the counte- 
nance depressed, a frothy spume coming from the throat 
au'l mouth. The animal may sneeze, or bark and howl 
violently, or snap and bite at anything within reach. 

Treatment: — When tapeworm is present, the best 
mode to rid the patient of it, is not to allow anything to 
eat for twenty-four to forty-eight hours, then give a 
drachm of powdered areca nut with a little syrup. If 
it vomits this, give another drachm and tie the mouth 
shut to prevent vomiting. In the course of five or six 
hours, give a physic, as 

Powdered Jalap two drachms. 

Syrup two ounces. Mix. 

Give half, and if the bowels do not move freely in 
four hours give the remainder. Or give 

Castor Oil two tablespoonfuls. 

If this fails to remove it entirely, repeat the treat- 
ment in ten days, or the following will answer equally as 
well : Take a quarter of a pound of hulled pumpkin 
seed and add a quart of water. Simmer down to a pint, 
and after fasting for a day or two, give a wineglassful 
every two hours, until four doses have been given, 
luiinediately after giving the last dose, give a physic. 
Either of the above will suffice. For the round worm, 
take 

Santonine half drachm. 

Copperas half drachm. Mix. 

Make into seven powders. Give one powder every 
morning in a little milk or small piece of meat, on an 
empty stomach, until they are all given, then give a 
physic, as 



572 DISEASES OF THE DOG. 

Castor Oil one ounce. 

Kepeat the treatment in two weeks, if necessary.. 
When the worms are lodired in the throat or nose^ 
inhalations of the fumes of burning sulphur, repeated 
every day for a few days, may dislodge them. Or forc- 
ing some powdered sulphur up into the parts, will 
greatly assist in removing them. 



WORMS IN THE KIDNEY. 

This worm, which is called the giant strongle, locates- 
itself in various parts of the body, but more especially 
in the kidneys. It measures from one to three feet in 
length, and from a quarter to a half inch in diameter^ 




GIANT STRONGLE. 

and is of a reddish x>ink color. Wherever it locates 
itself, it literally destroys that part. It destroys the 
kidneys completely, then drops into the abdominal cav- 
ity and causes the death of the animal. As yet all 
treatment has failed, although ten drop doses of turpen- 
tine given twice daily, if persisted in, might give the 
necessary relief desired. 



GONORRHOEA— CLAP. 

This disease is sometimes observed in the dog, but 
as a rule it causes very little inconvenience. It is often 
produced without any assignable cause, and since the- 
ways in which it may originate are so various, I will 



PARTURITION — PUPPING. O ( . > 

not here designate any of them. The symptoms are 
observed by the discharge of matter coming from the 
penis or accumuhiting around tlie end of the sheath, the 
dog often licking at it to keep the parts clean. 

Treatment :— Bathe and syringe the parts with warm 
water, once or twice daily, then wash with 

White Vitriol one drachm. 

Sugar of Lead one drachm. 

Water one pint. Mix. 

Apply twice daily, injecting a little at the same 
time. Use internally, 

Balsam Oopabia • • .half ounce. 

Tr. Oubebs one ounce. 

Spts. Sweet Nitre half ounce. 

Tincture Kino two drachms. 

Sulphate Morphine five grains. 

Syrup two ounces. Mix. 

Give a teaspoonful twice daily. 



PARTURITION— PUPPING. 

This generally takes phice between the sixty-second 
and sixty-fourth day, and after it has commenced, from 
a quarter of an hour to an hour generally elapses 
between the birth of each puppy. Many bitches are lost 
every year from this cause. There seems to^Jae a 
natural propensity for bitches to co-habit with dogs 
much larger than themselves, and their lives are for- 
feited for so doing. Bitches should have considerable 
exercise when pregnant, as delivery is much safer and 
easier than when they are penned up and exercise 
denied them. But wh^en the time has arrived and the 
delivery is a little prolonged, do not meddle too much ; 
give a little time. If, however, she cannot deliver ni' 1 
the puppy is either too large or is dead, oil the tingi .s 



574 DISEASES OF THE DOG. 

and go at the work of delivery gently. Use slight pres- 
sure along the belly until you can feel the head from 
bedind, then fasten a string over it or a pair of forceps 
and use gentle traction until it is delivered. After one 
is delivered, she may dc'iver the balance herself, so 
allow her a little time and see, but if it is absolutely 
necessary, continue until you have gotten them all. 
The bitch should be kept in a warm, comfortable place 
and fed on soft, nutritious food. While giving milk 
and sucking her young, she should be well fed, allowing 
her some cooked meat every day. If, however, she 
should commence to fail rapidly in flesh and have a 
poor appetite, the puppies should be weaned at once 
and fed on boiled milk. When the time arrives to 
wean the puppies, care should be exercised to keep the 
teats from swelling and becoming hard and inflamed, 
or should the pups all die, the same trouble is to be 
expected. The bitch should be milked frequenliy .ind 
bathed with hot water, after which use 

Camphor Gum one ounce. 

Lard three ounces. Mix. 

Apply twice daily. Sometimes, but fortunately not 
often, the bitch has after-pains after pupping, and 
forces the womb out. This organ sliould be washed in 
warm water, to which should be added a little alum, 
after which it should be returned with gentle pressure 
and the parts bandaged to prevent its coming out again. 
Give five drops of laudanum every half liour until four 
or five doses are given, to prevent the pains. If, how- 
ever, the womb has been out very long and iio'ten into 
such a condition that it cannot possibly be relumed, tie 
a strong silk cord around it, close up to the body, ;iiid 
in the course of a few hours cut the jjarts off about an 
inch back of the cord. ^lany hitcl^.os ni;{y ])e saved by 



FLEAS. 



oro 



this operation. After the parts are cut ofF cover the 
wound with iodoform, and some iodoform and vaseline 
may be used as a dressing, for a few days afterwards. 



FLEAS. 

These are very lively insects, whicli infest dogs, and 
cauee considerable annoyance and worry. The irrita- 




THK DOG FLEA, OR CHIGGER. 

tion produced by them causes the animal to scratch and 
dig at the parts attacked, considerably. They are very 




CAT FIAIA. 

easily gotten rid of by rubbing Persian insect powder 
doAvn into the roots of the hair, then wrapping the dog 
in a sheet for a few minutes. Or by taking tar soap 



67() DISEASES OF THE DOG. 

and applying it to the wetted hair until a very heavy 
lather is produced. Allow it remain on for twenty 
niiiuites, then wash oft' thoroughly. Coal oil or oil sassa- 
fras rubbed through the hair will also dispose of them. 
Cats are also troubled Avith fleas and they may be gotten 
rid of in the same manner. 



LICE. 

There are two kinds of lice which infest dogs ; the 
blood-sucker and bird-louse. They are best destroyed 
by using a strong solution of tobai^co juice, or by sifting 
wood ashes into tJie hair. Whale oil will also kill them. 




BIKD LOUSB. 

Or better still, take a quarter pound of stavesacre seeds, 
make a strong tea of them, and bathe the skin well 
every fourth day, for three or four applications. You 
will completely destroy the lice, and in that time the 
nits will all be hatched out. 



USEFUL DRUGS AND MEDICINES 

PRESCRIBED IN THE 
TREATMENT OF LIVE STOCK, WITH DOSES, ETC. 



Acetate of Lead, Su§:ar of Lead — Checks bleeding, 
especially from the stomach and lungs. When com- 
bined with opium it is used to check diarrhoea and 
dysentery. Externally, it heals burns, scalds, bruises 
and moist ulc-crs or sores, as well as itching skin com- 
])laints and cracked heels. When applied externally, 
mix half ounce in a pint of soft water. 

Doses: — Horses4md cattle, one drachm; calves and 
sheep, fifteen grains; pigs, two grains; dogs, one grain. 
To be given twice daily. Price per pound, 25 cts. 

Aconite, Tincture of — Relieves pain and inflammation, 
lowers temperature and produces sweating. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, twenty to thirty drops; 
slieep and pigs, five to ten drops; dogs, one to four 
drops. Price per pint, 60 cts. 

Aloes, Barbadoes — Used as a physic, but should not 
be given to mares with foal. It is not much used for 
cattle.* 

Doses : — Horses, four to ten drachms ; cattle, one to 
two ounces ; sheep, half ounce to an ounce ; hogs, two to 
live drachms; dogs, one drachm; colts, about five grains 
to every week of its age. Tincture, per pint, 50 cts. ; 
powder, per pound, 35 cts. 

(577) 



UTS MEDICINES AND THEIK USES. 

Alum — Alum is procured in either lump or powdered 
form and is seldom given internally. It is used prin- 
cipally in sores and in ulcerated condition of the mouth. 
Also when mixed with wheat flour to arrest bleeding 
and the flow of joint oil from open joints. It is quite 
extensively used as a healing powder, when mixed with 
iodoform. It is a convenient gargle for sore throat. 
Occasionally it is given internally along with opium in 
diarrhoea and dysentery. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, two to four drachms ; 
sheep and pigs, one drachm ; dogs ten to twenty grains. 
Price per pound, 8 cts. 

Ammonia, Aqua or Liquid — It is used as a stimulant, 
relieves spasms of the bowels and bloating and also acts 
upon the kidneys, causing flow of urine. When given 
internally it should be well diluted with water. It is 
principally used in making linaments. 

Doses: — Horses, half ounce; cattle, one ounce; 
eheep and pigs, two drachms ; dogs, ten drops. Price 
per pint, 10 cts. 

Ammonia, Carbonate — This comes in the solid form 
and has the same action as the liquid ammonia, varying 
only in strength. 

Doses: — Horses, two to four drachms; cattle, three 
CO six drachms; sheep and pigs, twenty grains ; dogs, 
five grains. It is given either in pills witli linseed 
meal or dissolved in cold gruel. Price per pound, 
17 cts. 

Anise Seed — Soothes an irritable stomach, relieves 
indigestion and bloating, and acts as a mild stimulent. 

Doses : — Horses, one ounce ; cattle, one to two 
ounces; sheejj and swine, two drachms; dogs, thirty 
grains. ' Can be repeated several times a day. Price 
per pound, 22 cts. 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. &79 

Antimony, Tartrate, Tartar Emetic — Causes a dischari::e 
from the nostrils, lowers the heart's actioD, and pro- 
duces sweating. Externally it is used to cause small 
pustules or blisters, and acts as an irritant. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, one to four draclims, 
given three or four times daily. Causes vomiting, when 
given in doses of from four to ten grains, in hogs and 
dogs. Price -per pound, 55 cte. 

Antimony, Butter of — Is used as a caustic for thrush 
and canker, and unhealthy granulations; for foul in the 
feet of cattle, and foot-rot in sheep. It should be used 
with great caution, as it is very powerful, and cannot 
be diluted with water. Price per pint, 85 cts. 

Animal Charcoal — Is prepared from bones. It is used 
to destroy foul smells, arrests putrefaction, purifies 
water when passed through it, and is an antidote in 
poisoning by arsenic, aconite and strychnine. 

Doses : — Horses, half ounce to an ounce: cattle, one 
ounce ; sheep and pigs, two drachms ; dogs, tVvcnty 
grains. It is usually given mixed with gruel. Price 
per pound, 10 cts. 

Areca Nut — Is principally used to expel worms from 
dogs, proving distructive alike to tape and round 
worms. 

Doses: — For dogs, from twenty grains lo two 
drachms. Prior to giving, the dog should fast for two 
days. Price per pound, 40 cts. 

Arnica, Tincture — It is principally used externally, in 
cases of strains, bruises and wounds, and especially in 
broken knees and sore shoulders. It is usually mixed 
in the proportion of one ounce of arnica to ten of water, 
to which is frequently added four drachms of sulphate 
of zinc. For painful wounds or bruises, it is often 
mixed with chloroform or laudanum, and diluted v.ith 
water according to circumstances. Price per pint, 50 cts. 



580 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

Arsenic — Is used to alter the condition of the system, 
by toning' up the nerves. It is useful in dyspepsia and 
indigestion, and in promoting recoveries from prolonged 
attacks of influenza or distemper. Externally, it is 
used to take off warts, and slough out fistula. In such 
cases, it is generally mixed one ounce of arsenic to four' 
of lard or vaseline. It is much used in sheep dips. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, one to six grains; sheep, 
one to two grains; hogs, two to four grains; dogs, one- 
fifteenth to one-tenth grain. It may be given once 
daily, and continued for a week or ten days. Price per 
IDound, 10 cts. 

Asafoetida — This is a mild stimulent, and relieves 
spasms and pain, as well as irritation of the stomach 
and bloating. It also causes the expulsion of worms. 

Doses : — Horses, two to four drachms ; cattle, one 
ounce ; sheep and hogs, one drachm ; dogs, fifteen 
grains. It may be given several times a day. Price 
per pound, 35 cts. 

Atropine — This allays pain, soothes spasms of the 
bowels, and if given in large doses, causes paralysis. It 
is most generally used in eye washes. It is seldom 
used internally, being too powerful. Price per drachm, 
50 cts. 

Belladonna — Soothes spasms of the bowels, allays 
pain, and is frequently given in spasmodic colic, in half 
drachm doses of the extract, or ounce doses of the 
tincture. It is very useful in tetanus, or lockjaw. It 
also causes dilatation of the mouth of the womb, when 
applied. The doses of the extract are, for horses, one 
drachm; cattle, two drachms; sheep, ten grains; dogs, 
. wo grains. Solid extract per ounce, 40 cts. ; tincture 
per pint, 90 cts. 

Benzoin — Used as a mild stimulant, expectorant and 
arrests putrefaction. The comijound tincture of ben- 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 581 

zoin, which is usually known as Fryer's Balsam, is 
quite extensively used as a stimulant and healing rem- 
edy for wounds, ulcers, and various skin complaints, 
in all classes of patients. Fryer's Balsam per pint, 70 
cts. ; gum per pound, GO cts. 

BluesJtone, Blue Vitriol— See copper Sulphate. Price 
per pound, 20 cents. 

Buchu— Is a mild stimulant and tonic. It also has 
a soothing action upon the kidneys, causing an increased 
flow of urine. The doses of the tincture are, for horses 
and cattle, one ounce ; sheep and hogs, four drachms ; 
dogs, one drachm. Tincture, price per pint, 50 cts. 

Calomel — When conjoined with aloes, it acts as a 
physic. It has a direct action upon the liver, causing an 
increased flow of bile, which it expels from the duo- 
denum, or first bowel. Externally, when applied to old 
sores or indolent ulcers, it assists greatly in the healing 
process. It also destroys the parasite of scab or mange, 
kills lice and is useful in cracked heels. It is one of 
the best remedies for thrush in the horse's frog. 

PosEg :_Horses and cattle, one drachm ; sheep and 
pigs, ten grains, dogs, two grains. It is not used alone 
as a physic, but is combined with other drugs, as aloes, 
epsom salts or oil. Price per pound, $1. 

Camphor— Camphor is a nerve stimulant and assists 
in controlling spasms of the bowels. Externally, it is 
applied in the form of spirituous solution, to allay itch- 
ing, and is soothing to bruises and sprains. 

"^PosES :— Horses and cattle, one to two drachms; 
sheep and pigs, twenty grains ; dogs, five grains. Gum, 
per pound, 70 cts. ; tincture, per pint, 60 cts. 

Cantharides— Oantharides is a stimulant and acts 
upon the kidneys, causing an increased flow of urine. 
It also causes an increased desire for sexual intercourse, 



582 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

when given in small doses. Applied externally, it acts 
as a counter-irritant and causes blisters to form in from 
one to twelve hours. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, from four to twenty 
grains; sheep and swine, two to seven grains: dogs, 
half grain to two grains. To be given once or twice 
daily, usually in the form of a pill, or in flaxseed gruel. 
Tincture, per pint, 60 cts. ; powder, per pound, $1. 

Capsicum, Cayenne Pepper, Red Pepper— This is used as 
a stimulant and tonic, promoting digestion and im]»:-ov- 
ing the appetite. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, three to four dracinns; 
sheep and hogs, one to two drachms; dogs, half drachm. 
Tincture, per pint, 50 cts. ; powder, per pound, 80 cts. 

Carbolic Acid— It arrests putrefaction and destroys 
parasites and germs, when applied locally. It is also a 
Btiraulant and caustic. It is employed mostly in heal- 
ing lotions, when it should be diluted with water, oil, or 
glycerine in the proportions of one to twenty or thirty. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, fifteen to thirty drops; 
sheep and pigs, six drops; dogs, one drop. It is best 
given in a pill, mixed with linseed meal. Price per 
pint, 40 cts. 

Cardamons — Has the same actions as anise seed, and 
is given in the same doses. See anise seed. Price per 
pound, $1. 

Castor Oil — This is principally used as a physic. As 
it causes no irritation or griping, it is frequently pre- 
scribed in diseases of the digestive organs and can be 
safely administered in advanced pregnancy. It, is the 
best physic for foals and calves. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, one pint; sheep and 
pigs, two to four ounces; dogs, one to two ounces. 
Price per pint, 30 cts. 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. '^^^ 

Catechu— This is an astringent, and causes a binding 
up of the bowels when administered, and is given when 
there is bloody discharge from the bowels, in cases of 
diarrhoea and dysentery. 

Doses:— (Powder.)— Horses, one to three drachms; 
cattle, one to five drachms; sheep and swine, one to two 
drachms; dogs, four to twenty grains. To be given 
three or four times a day, with gruel. Tincture, per 
pint, 60 cts. ; powder, per pound, 20 cts. 

Chloral Hydrate— This drug is quite extensively used 
in the treatment of live stock, to allay pain, quiet irri- 
tability and cause sleep. It is used in cases of flatulent 
and spasmodic colic, brain troubles and nervous disor- 
ders, as tetanus, hysteria, etc. 

Doses :— For horses, two to eight drachms ; for cattle, 
four drachms to one ounce ; sheep and pigs, one drachm ; 
dogs, ten grains. Can be repeated ever two or three 
hours, and should be well diluted. Price per pound, 
$1.10. 

Chloroform— By whatever channel it enters the sys- 
tem, it slightly stimulates at first; excitement follows, 
then sleep. It allays pain, whether taken internally or 
applied locally, and is a valuable remedy when given 
for spasmodic colic. 

Doses :— Horses and cattle, one to two drachms; 
sheep and swine, twenty to forty drops ; dogs, five to 
ten drops. It should be given mixed with syrup, muci- 
lage, whisked egg, or weak spirits, and may be repeated 
at intervals of from one to three hours. Price per 
pound, 75 cts. 

Cocaine— When administered internally, small doses 
are stimulant and tonic. When applied externally, it 
diminishes sensibility to pain, and is most frequently 
used in making examinations of the eye. By mixing 
ten grains with an ounce of water and applying a few 



584 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

drops to the eye every thirty seconds, it deadens the 
pain so that an examination can be made without diffi- 
culty, when chaff and other foreign substances can be 
easily removed. Price per grain, 2 cts. 

Cod-Liver Oil — This is prepared from the liver of the 
codfish and is a very nourishing tonic, changing the 
system in such a manner that it lays on flesh quite rap- 
idly. It is very useful for weak and sickly colts and 
calves, and for animals convalescing from a lingering 
attack of distemper and influenza. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, two to three ounces ; 
sheep and pigs, one ounce ; dogs, one to four drachms. 
It may be given twice daily and continued for weeks, 
if required. Price per gallon, $1.25. 

Copaiba Balsam — This medicine is not much used in 
practice, save in diseases of the urinary organs, and in 
the treatment of gonorrhoea. Price per pound, 65 cts. 

Copper Sulphate — Given in large doses, it is an irri- 
tant, but in medicinal doses, it is a valuable tonic and 
astringent. Externally it is used as a stimulant, 
astringent and caustic. It is used in eye washes, as a 
dressing for sluggish wounds, for the removal of warts, 
to cut off unhealthy granulations and to arrest 
bleeding. 

Doses : — As a tonic and astringent, horses take one to 
two drachms ; cattle, one to four drachms ; sheep, twenty 
to thirty grains ; pigs, five to ten grains ; dogs, one 
grain. It should be given Avhile eating or immediately 
thereafter. Price per pound, 20 cts. 

Copperas — See Iron Sulphate. Price per pound, 4 cts. 

Corrosive Sublimate — This is a preparation of mercury 
and is an irritant poison. It should not be given inter- 
nally, except when prescribed by an expert. Externally 
it is used to arrest putrefaction, promote healthy granu- 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 



585 



lations, to destroy indolent ulcers, for the destruction 
of parasites and as a caustic. It is used also, in many 
itching skin diseases. When used externally, it should 
be diluted according to circumstances. Price per 
pound, 90 cts. 

Cotton Seed Oil— This is obtained from the seeds of 
the cotton. It is a dark, brownish red, fixed oil, and is 
principally used in making liniment. Price per gallon, 
75 cts. 

Croton Oil — This is obtained from the croton seeds, 
and is a drastic physic, producing griping. It is seldom 
given alone but is usually mixed with other purgatives, 
wlien a quick action of the bowels is required. It is 
sometimes used externally, as a blister, but is more 
frequently mixed with other medicines, in the forma- 
tion of liniments. It is used quite often to physic 
cattle. 

Doses: — Horses, fifteen to twenty drops; cattle, half 
drachm to two drachms; sheep and swine, five to ten 
drops; dogs, one to three drops. Price per pint, $1.25. 

Cubebs, Tincture — The chief use of cubebs is for the 
relief of infiammation of the urinary passages, and like 
copaiba, it has long been used for the cure of gonorrhoea. 
Doses : — Horses and cattle, one ounce ; sheep and 
swine, half ounce; dogs, two drachms. To be given 
twice daily. Price per pint, 50 cts. 

Digfitalis — Digitalis grows wild in this country on 
gravelly, sandy soil, more especially hilly pastures. It 
has a direct action upon the heart and kidneys, giving 
force and strength to the former and causes an increased 
flow of urine from the latter. 

Doses : — Of the powdered leaves horses take ten to 
thirty grains ; cattle, half drachm to a drachm ; sheep 
and swine, eight to ten grains ; dogs, one to four grains. 



586 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

Of the tincture, horses and cattle take two to four 
drachms; sheep and swine, one drachm; dogs, two to 
five drops. Tincture, price per pint, 50 cts. 

Emetic Tartar — See Antimony Tartrate. Price per 
pound, 55 cts. 

Epsom Salts, Magnesium Sulphate — This salt is used as 
a physic, to reduce fever and to alter the condition of 
the system. It is more extensively used for cattle and 
sheep, as its action upon the bowels gives better results 
than any other physic. 

Doses : — As a physic for grown cattle, a pound to a 
pound and a half; calves, two to three months old, 
three to four ounces ; sheep and pigs, four to six ounces ; 
dogs, two to four drachms. For other purposes, as to 
lower fever and regulate the bowels, give one-fifth to 
one-eighth of the above doses. It should be well 
diluted with water. Price per pound, 7 cts. 

Ergot of Rye — This is obtained from blasted rye, and 
is given to assist in difficult parturition, when the labor 
pains occur at long intervals. It is also of great benefit 
after parturition, to cause contraction of the womb and 
arrest bleeding from this organ. 

Doses :— Mare and cow, half an ounce to an ounce; 
sheep, swine and bitches, one drachm. Kepeat at 
intervals of half an hour or an hour. Tincture, price 
per pint, 60 cts. 

Ether Nitrous, Spirits of (Sweet Spirits of Nitre)— This 
drug is an excellent stimulant, produces sweating and 
also acts upon the kidneys, causing an increased flow 
of urine. It is very useful in the various forms of 
colic, acting as a stimulant and controlling the pain 
produced by spasms. It is also useful in lowering fever. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, one to three ounces; 
•heep, two to four drachms: pigs, one to two drachms; 
dogs, one drachm. It should be well diluted with cold 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. ')S7 

water, and should be given as quickly as possil>le .■.rier 
it is diluted. Price per pint, 40 cts. 

Ether, Sulphuric Ether— This is quite a valuable rem- 
edy and is used as a stimulant and to relieve spasms of 
the bowels. It is a useful remedy in flatulent colic, to 
relieve bloatin"-. It is also used to produce sleep, the 
same as chloroform. It is also very useful where there 
is pain or cramping of the bowels. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, one to two ounces; 
sheep and pigs, two to four drachms; dogs, one drachm. 
It should be well diluted with cold water before giving, 
but should not be diluted until ready for use. Price 
per pint, 75 cents. 

Foenu§:reek — This has the same action and uses as 
anise seed, and is given in similar doses. See Anis*^ 
Seed. Price per pound, 10 cts. 

Gentian — This is a pure bitter, and is used to tone up 
the stomach and promote digestion. It improves the 
appetite and general tone. It is an excellent stimulat- 
ing tonic in influenza and other epizootic diseases. It 
is also beneficial for horses jaded and over-worked, or 
suffering from slight cold. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, half ounce to an ounce; 
sheep, one to two drachms; pigs, one drachm; dogs, ten 
to fifteen grains. To be given twice or thrice daily. 
Price per pound, 15 cts. 

Gentian, Tincture of — Has the same action as the 
powder, and is given for the same purposes. Doses 
about the same. Price per pint, 50 cts. 

Ginger — Ginger is used as a stimulant, tones up the 
stomach and relieves bloating, and cramps of the 
bowels. It promotes digestion and increases the appe- 
tite. When mixed with physic, it diminishes the ten- 
dency to nauseate and gripe. 



588 MEDICINES AND TIIEIK USES. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, half ounce to one ounce ; 
sheep, one to two drachms; pigs, half drachm, doi^s, 
ten to twenty grains. Tincture, per pint, 60 cts. ; pow- 
der, per pound, 30 cts. 

Glauber Salts (Sulphate of Soda) — This is given as a 
physic; also to reduce fever; increases the secretion of 
bile in the liver, and has a slight action upon the 
kidneys. 

Doses : — As a physic, cattle take a pound to a pound 
and a half; horses, one pound; sheep, two to four 
ounces; dogs, one ounce. It is usually combined with 
a little ginger, and should be well diluted with water. 
Price per pound, 5 cts. 

Glycyrrhiza (Licorice Root) — This resembles sugar in 
its medicinal uses, and is occasionally used in irritation 
of the mucous membrane of the windpipe. Also to 
cover the disagreeable taste and odor of various drugs. 
Price per pound, 20 cts. 

Goulard's Extract— This is used externally as an. 
astringent. Also as a cooling or soothing application, 
to reduce inflammation of the testicles, when it is 
usually mixed with laudanum, in the proportions of one 
ounce of each to a pint of water. Price per pint, 20 cts. 

Hellebore — Hellebore is used to expel worms from 
the bowels. When given as a physic it produces grip- 
ing and in large doses produces vomiting. It is some- 
times used externally and is a dangerous remedy when 
not used with great care. Price per pound, 30 cts. 

Hemlock, Oil of — This is used in the formation of 
various liniments and is very fatal if given internally. 
Price per pint, 40 cts. 

Hoffman's Anodyne — Consists of oil of wine, three 
parts ; ether, sixty-four parts ; rectified spirits, one 
hundred and twenty-eight parts. It is used to allay 



MEDICrtTES AND THEIR USES. 589 

restlessness, sleeplessness and nervous disturbances, 
es|>ecially in the absence of fever, and is a convenient 
remedy for flatulentcy or bloating. It may be used in 
all cases in which sulphuric ether is given internally. 
Doses : — Horses, one ounce ; cattle, two ounces ; sheep 
and pigs, two drachms ; dogs, half a drachm. Price per 
pint, 65 cts. 

Hypo-Sulphate of Soda — This remedy is used to destroy 
odors, arrest putrefaction and for the destruction of 
Insects. It is beneficial in attacks of fever, and relieves 
acidity of the stomach and bloating in badly fed young 
calves. It is also used to diminish the offensive secre- 
tion and to abate the low fever occurring in distemper 
in (logs. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, two to four drachms; 
sheep and pigs, twenty to thirty grains; dogs, two to 
live grains. It may be given several times daily. Price 
per pound, 7 cts. 

Iodoform — This is used to prevent putrefaction and 
destroy foul smells. It is beneficial in healing wounds 
and sores, by being dusted upon the wound, but it is- 
usually mixed with powdered alum for this purpose, in 
the proportion of one ounce of iodoform to four or six 
of the alum. Price per ounce, 40 cts. 

Iodine — Iodine is prepared from the semi- vitrified 
ashes of sea-weed. Medicinal doses arrest putrefaction, 
alter the condition of the system and act as a mild 
stimulant. It exerts its effects especially on mucou& 
membranes, skin and lymphatic glands. Externally it 
is applied to arrest putrefaction and as a counter- 
irritant or blister. It is used in chronic inflammation 
of the joints, wind-galls, bog spavin, strains of tendons 
and enlargement of the udder, and other glands. 

Doses : — For horses and cattle, twenty grains to a 



590 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

drachm ; sheep and pigs, ten to twenty grains ; dogs, 
three to eight grains. To be repeated once or twice 
daily, and to be given a couple of hours after eating. 
When applied externally it is used in the form of a 
tincture. Powdered, per ounce, 35 cts. ; tincture, per 
pint, 85 cts. 

Iron Sulphate, Copperas— This is a good blood tonic 
and astringent, when given internally. Applied extern- 
ally, it is an astringent and arrests bleeding and pre- 
vents putrefaction. It improves the appetite, dimin- 
ishes exhausting discharges and abates glandular 
enlargements. It is especially beneficial when given to 
young horses, cattle or sheep which have been poorly 
kept, and whose blood is in a bad condition. It is also 
used to exi)el intestinal worms. Used externally, when 
dissolved in water, it is an excellent remedy for cracked 
heels and scratches. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, one to two drachms; 
sheep and hogs, ten to twenty grains; dogs, two to ten 
grains. May be given twice or thrice daily, and is 
usually combined with gentian or ginger. Price per 
pound, 4 cts. 

Jalap — Jalap is principally used as a physic for dogs. 
It increases the flow of the bile from the liver, and 
assists in the expulsion of worms. 

Doses : — Dogs, one to two drachms. It is best given 
combined with calomel, in the form of one drachm of 
jalap to three grains of calomel. Price, per pound, 
60 cts. 

Kino^Kino is an astringent and causes a binding up 
of the bowels. It is used principally in the treatment 
of diarrhoea. 

Doses: — Horses, half ounce; cattle, one ounce; 
sheep and pigs, two drachms; dogs, one drachm. 
Tincture, per pint, 60 cts. 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 591 

Lanolin - This is prepared by steeping and boiling 
sheep's wool in water. It is principall}^ used as a basis 
for ointments and liniments, and mixes readily with 
fats and oils. Price per pound, $1.00. 

Laudanum— See Opium Tincture. Price per pint, 
$1.00. 

Liquor Ammonia Acetatis (Liq. Ammonia Acet.— Minde- 
rerus Spirits.) — This is prepared by taking one ounce of 
acetic acid and seven ounces of water. Mix together 
and add carbonate of ammonia until it ceases eflorves- 
cing. It should only be ])rei)ared shortly prior to use. 
It is a valuable remedy to produce sweating, increase 
the flow of urine, reduce fevers and cause expectoration. 
It is useful in lung fever, influenza, strangles or dis- 
temper, scarletina, erysipelas, colds and it bronchitis. It 
is often combined with other remedies, as epsom salts, 
chlorate and nitrate of potassium, gentian, ginger, 
quinine, etc. Where patients are weak and exhausted, 
it is usually combined with alcohol or sweet spirits of 
nitre. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, two to four ounces ; 
sheep, one to two ounces: hogs, half an ounce to an 
ounce ; dogs, two to four drachms. Price per pint 
20 cts. 

Listerine — This is a proprietary medicine, and has 
about the same actions as carbolic acid. It is used in 
many healing lotions; also as a gargle for the mouth 
and throat. Price per bottle, 85 cts. 

Liverwort— This herb grows wild in the shady woods, 
of North America, and is very seldom used in the treat- 
ment of disease. Price per pound, 40 cts. 

Lime, Chloride of — This preparation of lime is some- 
times known as bleaching powder, and is seldom given 
internally. Externally, it is used as a stimulant, and 



i>02 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

to destroy the offensive smell from unhealthy wounds. 
It is more frequently used as a disinfectant, around 
stables where contagious or epizootic diseases prevail. 
Price per pound, 8 cts. 

Lobelia— The chief use of lobelia, is in the treatment 
of asthma, by relieving the bronchial spasm. It is 
quite frequently administered to check or relieve 
heaves. 

Doses of the Tincture — For Horses and cattle, half 
ounce to. an ounce ; sheep and hogs, one to three drachms ; 
dogs, half drachm to a drachm. Tincture, price per 
pint, 50 cts. 

Lunar Caustic — See Nitrate of Silver. Price per 
ounce, 70 cts. 

Magnesia, Sulphate — See Epsom Salts. Price per 
pound, 5 cts, 

Male Shield Fern, Oil of— This oil is principally used to 
expel worms. It is a very effectual remedy for tape- 
worm in dogs, sometimes dislodging them within three 
hours. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, two to four drachms; 
sheep and hogs, one drachm; dogs, half drachm to one 
drachm. It is sometimes given with either turpentine 
or linseed oil, and may be repeated within three days. 
Price per ounce, 80 cts. 

Mercury, Red or Biniodide — This form of mercury is 
seldom given internally, but externally it is used to 
produce superficial inflammation or blisters, and is 
generally mixed with one part of the mercury to eight 
of vaseline or lard. It is valuable in the treatment of 
spavin and ringbone, sprains or enlarged tendons, and 
when applied around the throat, it sometimes relieves a 
chronic cough and roaring, where other remedies have 
failed. It should be used with care, or blemishes may 



MTmicnsKS AND Tirj?iii USES. 593 

1)0 the result, as ii: may debtroy the hair roots, if used 
ioo freely. Price per outice, oO cts. 

Morphia, Sulphate and Muriate (Korphiiie.)— This is the 
active principle of opium, from which it is obtained. It 
may be used in all cases where opium is required. See 
Opium. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, ten to thirty grains; 
sheep and pigs, one to two grains ; dogs, one-eighth to 
one-half a grain. Price per ounce, .$2.50. 

Nitrate of Potassium— Sec Potassium Nitrate. Price 
P'^r i)ound, 12 cts. 

Nitrate of Silver (Lunar Caustic)— It is sometimes used 
as a tonic m chorea and epilepsy among dogs. It is 
seldom used internally, but externally, it is used as a 
caustic to promote healthy granulations in indolent 
ulcers. Sticks of it are sometimes forced to the bottom 
of pipes, in fistulous withers and poll evil. It is an 
excellent dressing for obstinately sore teats in cows, as 
A', ell as for foot-rot in sheep. It is useful in removing 
warts and other enlargements of the skin. A solution 
containing two to five grains in an ounce of water, 
abates pain and congestion of the eyes. It is, therefore, 
used in several eye lotions. Price per ounce, 70 cts. 

Nitric Acid — This is an irritant and corrosive and 
lenves a yellow or brown stain on the skin. It is used 
internally as a stimulant and tonic to the liver, and can 
be given to horses convalescing from influenza, jaundice 
and other debilitating disorders. Externally, it is used 
to remove warts or other malignant growths, such as 
f^ometime appear in a bad case of grease-heel. When 
applied for these purposes, the surrounding parts should 
be protected by being well oiled. 

"Doses : — Of the diluted medicinal acid, horses and 
cattle take one to two drachms; sheep and pigs, ten to 



594 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

twenty drops ; dog?, two to ten drops. It should always 
be well diluted with water. Price per pint, 9 cts. 

Nitro-Muriatic Acid— This very much resembles nitric 
acid, and is given for the same diseases and in the same 
doses as nitric acid. Price per pint, 15 cts. 

Nux Vomica — Nux Vomica is the best nerve stimulant 
and tonic that is prescribed in veterinary practice. It 
is useful in dyspepsia and any stomach or nervous 
derangement, and may be used with great benefit when 
convalescing from any exhausting or nervous diseases. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, half a drachm to two 
drachms; sheep, ten to forty grains; pigs, ten to twenty 
grains; dogs, half grain to two grains. Of the tincture, 
horses and cattle take half ounce to an ounce ; sheep 
and pigs, one to two drachms; dogs, five to ten drops. 
When twitching of the muscles is produced, cease 
giving. Tincture, per pint, 50 cts. ; powder, price per 
pound, 25 cts. 

Olive Oil (Sweet Oil) — Olive oil given in small doses, 
resembles cod-liver oil, becoming assimilated and assist- 
ing in the production of heat and fat. In large doses it 
acts as a physic, for which it is seldom used. It is more 
frequently used in the formation of liniments, but is 
usually superseded by cheaper oil, as cottonseed oil, 
lard, linseed oil or vaseline. Price per gallon, 75 cts. 

Opium, Powdered — No one remedy is more frequently 
prescribed than opium in its various forms. It can be 
given as a stimulant. Small and frequent doses pro- 
duce sweating; larger doses relieve pain and spasms of 
the bowels, depress the activity of the brain and pro- 
duce sleep. It also relieves congestion and inflamma- 
tion and controls pain. It is useful in inflammation of 
the lungs, bowels, kidneys, bladder, or any internal or- 
gan. ■ It is useful in diarrlioea and dysentery and rv^lieves 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 596 

cough, whether acute or chronic. It is very effectual in 
arresting premature labor pains. Externally it is used 
to relieve painful wounds, bruises, boils, or blistered 
surfaces, as well as inflammation of the eyes, skin or 
joints. For such purposes, ten drops each of laudanum 
and Goulard's Extract, may be mixed with an ounce of 
water and freely applied. 

Doses : — (Powdered or gum opium.) Horses, one to 
two draclims; cattle, two to four drachms; sheep, ten to 
forty grains; dogs, one to five grains. Price per ounce, 
38 cts. 

Opium, Tincture of (Laudanum) — Tincture of opium 
and huidaniim are one and the same thing, and are pre- 
pared from the gum of powdered opium. They may be 
used for all complaints where opium is indicated, such 
as colic, cramps, etc. See Opium. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, one to two ounces ; 
slieep, two to four drachms; hogs, one to two drachms; 
dogs, five to twenty drops. Price per pint, $1. 

Origfanum, Oil of — This oil is sometimes used to relieve 
the pain of carious teeth and neuralgia, but is more 
fre(iuently used in liniments. Price per pint, 40 cts. 

Oxide of Zinc — See Zinc Oxide. Price per pound, 
15 cts. 

Podophyllin — This resin is taken from the mayapple 
or mandrake, and is used as a pliysic, but is very uncer- 
tain, unless combined with aloes, jalap or calomel ; it 
then relieves congestion of the liver. It is sometimes 
used to lower the heart's action, in acute rheumatism 
and other inflammatory disorders in robust patients. 

■* Doses : — To cause an increased flow of bile from the 
liver, horses and cattle take one to two drachms, mixed 
with aloes, calomel or epsom salts. Dogs require one 
to two grains, with calomel one to two grains, which 



596 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

may be mixed with an ounce of oil. Price per ounce, 
40 cts. 

Potassium, Bicarbonate — Given before meals, it in- 
creases the secretion of the juices of the stomach, and 
is sometimes given for rheumatism. The action upon 
the kidneys is not so certain as the acetate or nitrate. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, half ounce to an ounce; 
sheep and pigs, half a drachm to a drachm ; dogs, ten to 
forty grains. May be repeated several times a day, 
well diluted with water. Price per pound, 20 cts. 

Potassium, Sulphuret — Large doses are irritant. Small 
doses stimulate the secretions of the skin and alter the 
condition of the system. Externally, it is sometinips 
used as a substitute for sulphur, in skin diseases. It 
has been used in chronic cough and rheumatism. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, one to three drachms; 
dogs, two to ten grains. Price per pound, 30 cts. 

Potassium, Iodide of — This closely resembles iodine, 
but is less powerful. It promotes absorption of deposits, 
reduces enlarged glands and lung consolidation. It is 
useful in rheumatism and skin diseases. Externally 
used, it is usually conjoined with soap liniment and 
laudanum, and is applied to swollen, rheumatic joints 
and to inflamed udders in cows and ewes. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, two to five drachms; 
sheep and pigs, twenty to forty grains ; dogs, five to 
fifteen grains. May be given two or three times a day. 
Price per ounce, 25 cts. 

Potassium, Bromide of — This form of potassium con- 
trols irritability or excitement, whether exhibited in 
restlessness or convulsions. It is often given mixed 
with alcohol, chloral or opium. It quiets irritability 
from tetanus or lockjaw, in horses, and wards off 
epileptic convulsions in dogs. 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. S97 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, half ounce to an ounce; 
dogs, five to twenty grains. May be given every two or 
three hours. Price per pound, 40 cts. 

Potassium, Nitrate of (Saltpetre) — This drug is quite 
extensively used in veterinary practice. Large doses 
are irritant and slightly laxative. Medicinal doses 
arrest putrefaction, alter the condition of the system, 
reduce fever and act upon the kidneys by causing an 
increased flow of urine. It is used quite largely in the 
treatment of febrile and inflammatory complaints, both 
in horses and cattle, and lessens the pain in fever and 
founder. Externally, when dissolved in water, it is an 
excellent application for bruises by dispersing the 
increased flow of blood to the parts, thu? exerting its 
cooling effects. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, half ounce to an ounce ; 
sheep, one to two drachms : pigs half a drachm ; dogs, 
ten to thirty grains. ]\lay be given three or four times 
daily. Price per pound, 12 cts. 

Potassium, Chlorate of — This drug is quite extensively 
used in veterinary i^ractice. It arrests putrefaction, 
alters the condition of the system, increases the flow 
from secreting glands and also the action of the kid- 
neys. It soothes and heals eruptions and ulcerations of 
the mouth and throat, uliile in catarrh, sore throat and 
distemper, it thins the secretions and promotes the dis- 
charge from the nostrils. It lowers the pulse and fevers, 
cleans the tongue, improves the appetite; gently stimu- 
lates the bowels and renders their evacuations more 
natural and less coated with mucous. It is useful in 
distemper, epizootic and the various forms of influenza, 

coughs and colds, as well as in the treatment of purpura, 

c 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, two to four drachms; 
sheep and pigs, twenty to forty grains ; dogs, five to 



698 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

fifteen grains. May be given three or four times daily. 
Price per pound, 30 cts. 

Potassium, Permanganate of— This remedy is seldom 
given internally, but is used externally as a mild stimu- 
lant, and to destroy the odors of foul and unhealthy 
sores. It is used frequently as an injection into the 
vagina and womb, to destroy offensive odors, and in the 
treatment of leucorrhoea or whites, mixed in the pro- 
portion of one drachm of the permanganate to a quart 
of water. Price per pound, 40 cts. 

Potassium, Acetate of — Is used the same as the nitrate 
potassium, which it closely resembles in its actions, and 
is given in the same doses. Price per pound, 40 cts. 

Potash, Caustic — Caustic potash is attained from ashes 
and is used to cauterize snake bites and to remove 
warts and fungus growths. It is seldom used intern- 
ally. It is now used quite extensively in preventing 
the growth of horns on calves. This result is obtained 
by taking the stick potash and applying it over the 
parts where the horns grow, when the calf is two or 
three weeks old. First cut off the hair over the parts, 
then moisten them a little, then apply the potash spar- 
ingly, and no horns will grow afterwards. Price per 
pound, 60 cts. 

Prussic Acid — This drug is such a deadly poison that 
ft is unsafe in the hands of an amateur and should only 
be given where it has been prescribed by a professional 
man. Dilute, price per pint, 50 cts. 

Quassia — Quassia is a bitter, which increases the 
appetite, tones up the system and expels worms. It is 
prescribed for dyspepsia, loss of appetite and in con- 
valescence from debilitating diseases. 

Doses : — It is usually given in the form of an infu- 
sion, which is made b}'^ soaking for an hour, one part of 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. , 599 

the chips to eighty parts of cold water. Of the infu- 
sion, horses and cattle take two to four ounces ; sheep 
and pigs, four drachms ; dogs, one drachm. Price per 
pound, 15 cts. 

Quinine, Sulphate — Quinine is obtained from the bark 
of cinchona, of which there are different varieties, 
yielding various amounts. It is used for the same dis- 
eases as cinchona bark, but being the extract is much 
stronger, it is given in smaller doses. It is given to 
tone up the system, improve the appetite and check 
fermentation within the bowels. It reduces fevers and 
hastens convalescence from debilitating diseases. Large 
doses sometimes check congestion of the lungs, thus 
cutting short an attack of lung fever. It is useful in 
influenza, protracted cases of strangles, and purpura, 
and other feverish attacks in horses; also in fevered 
conditions in cows and ewes after delivering their 
young, and in bad cases of distemper in dogs; or any 
disease which is caused from malaria. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, half drachm to a drachm ; 
sheep and pigs, five to twenty grains ; dogs, one to eight 
grains. May be given two or three times daily. Price 
per ounce, 40 cts. 

Rectified Spirits — Rectified spirits very much resembles 
alcohol and is used for making all the spirits and a 
large number of the tinctures and extracts now in use. 
It is quite extensively used in its various forms. It 
stimulates the secretions of the stomach and improves 
the appetite in indigestion ; it relieves bloating and 
controls the spasms of bowels, colic or intestinal colic ; 
also checks persistent diarrhoea, equalizes irregular cir- 
culation in chills and strengthens the heart's action ; it 
is used in epizootic catarrh, sore throat, congestion of 
' the lungs, bronchitis and pneumonia, and in all patients 
during lingering or debilitating disorders, or in any 



600 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

case where stimulants are indicated. Used externally, 
it causes redness of the skin and acts as a mild irritant, 
entering, also, into the formation of various liniments. 

Doses : — Of the rectified spirits, horses take about 
one ounce ; cattle, one to three ounces ; sheep, half an 
ounce ; pigs, two drachms ; dogs, one drachm. Whisky, 
gin and brandy, which are made from rectified spirits, 
are not nearly so strong and may be given in much 
larger doses, as often as occasion demands. Price per' 
pint, 35 cts. I 

Resin— This is obtained as a residue, in the prepara- 
tion of turpentine. It is a mild stimulant and acts upon' 
the kidneys, causing an increased flow of urine. Ex- 
ternally, it is used in the formation of various plasters. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, one to two ounces ; sheep 
and pigs, half an ounce ; dogs, two drachms. Price per 
pound, 5 cts. 

Rhubarb — Rhubarb increases the tone of the stomach, 
causes an increased flow of bile from the liver and 
acts as a mild physic. Small and repeated doses, 
improve the appetite. It is usually given combined 
with aloes, epsom salts or some other cathartic, as it 
scarcely produces any purging eflFect upon the bowels of 
j)orses or cattle, when given alone. 

Doses: — To increase the tone of the stomach, horses 
take one ounce; cattle two ounces; sheep, one drachm; 
dogs, ten to twenty grains. Price per pound, $1.00. 

Salicylate of Soda — This is prepared from salicylic acid 
and soda. It is a whitish powder and is used consid- 
erably in the treatment of all kinds of rheumatism. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle take two to four drachms; 
sheep and dogs, ten to fifteen grains. Price per ounce, 
18 cts. 

Salicylic Acid — Salicylic acid is a soft, light, white 
pow der. It is odorless, but when inhaled, irritates the 



MEDICINES AXD THEIR USES. 601 

nostrils and has an action upon the liver which renders 
the bile more watery. It is used in dyspepsia where 
bloating occurs, and in diarrhoea in young animals to 
arrest fermentation. It is used in all classes of patients 
for rheumatism, whether acute or chronic. Externally, 
it is used conjoined with alcohol, in the treatment of 
skin diseases, where itching is a predominant symptom. 

Doses :— Horses and cattle, one to two drachms; 
sheep, hogs and dogs, ten to fifteen grains. May be 
given every one to two hours, but should always be 
mixed with either baking soda or borax. Price per 
ounce, 15 cts. 

Santonine — Pantonine is used almost exclusively for 
the destruction of worms and is one of the best remedies 
for their extermination. When given at night, it should 
be followed by a brisk physic in the morning, or it may 
be mixed with the physic and given at the same time, 
upon an empty stomach. 

Doses :— Horses and cattle, one to two drachms; 
sheep and hogs, two to ten grains: dogs, one to three 
grains. Price per ounce, 30 cts. 

Soda, Bi-Carbonate of, and Carbonate (Baking Soda)— 
These two preparations of soda counteract acidity and 
alter the condition of the system. When given a half 
hour before meals, they increase the secretion of the 
gastric juice. They are very serviceable in relieving 
indigestion and bloating, hence are given to relieve 
flatulent colic. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, one to three drachms; 
sheep and pigs, twenty to forty grains ; dogs, five to fif- 
teen grains. The bi-carbonate may be given in double 
the amount above mentioned. Bi-Carbonate, per pound, 
7 cts ; Carbonate, per pound, 5 cts. 

Sodium, CMoride — Common Table Salt. 



002 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 



Sodium, Sulphate — See Glauber Salts. Price, per 
pound, 5 cts. 

Spanish Brov/n — This is used in various mixtures and 
contains a light percentage of sesquioxide of iron. 
Price, per pound, r> cts. 

Spirits Frumenti — Whiskey. 

Squills, Syrup of — When given in large doses, squills 
causes vomiting and purging; in smnll doses, it lowers 
the pulse rate and raises the blood prost^^ure. It also 
causes expectoration, and increases the action of the 
kidneys. It is chiefly given in diseases of the air pas- 
sages and lungs, in the form of syrup. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, two to lour drachms; 
sheep, hog and dog, ten to twenty drops. Price, per 
pint, 45 cts. 

Stavesacre Seeds — This seed is used for the destruc- 
tion of lice, and is the best remedy known for this pur- 
pose. It is prepared by taking one pound of the seeds, 
adding two gallons of water. Simmer over a slow fire, 
for two hours, then add water suflScient to make two 
gallons. It is then ready for use. Price, per pound, 
25 cts. 

Strychnia, Strychnine — ^This is prepared from nux 
vomica and is given in all diseases where nux vomica is 
useful. See Nux Vomica. 

Doses: — Horses, one to two grains; cattle, two to 
four grains ; sheep, one-fifth to one grain ; hog and dog, 
one-fiftieth to one-twentieth of a grain. May be given 
twice daily.. Price, per ounce, $1.50. 

Sulphuric Acid — This acid is a corrosive, irritant 
poison, but is used to arrest putrefaction, to tone up 
And cool off the system. It is also used as an astringent, 
and is given in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery. It is 
also useful in influenza tending to purpura. It is used 



Medicines and their uses. o03 

externally in various liniments and as a blistering oint- 
ment, when combined with other remedies. 

Doses : — Of the medicinal acid, horses take one to 
two drachms; cattle, two to four drachms; sheep, half 
a drachm to a drachm ; pigs, ten to twenty drops ; dogs, 
two to five drops. May be given several times a day, 
freely diluted with water. Price, per pint, 5 cts. 

Sulphur — Flower of sulphur is quite extensively used. 
It acts as a mild physic, when given internally. Exter- 
nally, it is used in various skin diseases, being very 
effectual in the cure of mange and scab, and is usually 
combined with tar oils. 

Doses : — To loosen the bowels, horses take one to 
four ounces; cattle, three to six ounces; sheep and pigs, 
one ounce; dogs, two drachms. Ointments used exter- 
nally usually consist of one part of sulphur to four of 
vaseline or lard. Price, per pound, 8 cts. 

Sug:ar of Lead — See Acetate of Lead. Price per 
pound, 20 cts. 

Sweet Oil — See Olive Oil. Price per gallon, 75 cts. 

Tannin, Tannic Acid — This is used principally as an 
astringent in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery. It is 
useful in preventing bleeding in the stomach, bowels or 
womb, also from the lungs. Externally it is used on 
ulcers of the mouth, sore teats, and piles. It is some- 
times used as an injection, in gleet and whites. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, one to two drachms ; 
sheep, hog and dog, three to ten grains. Price, per 
pound, $1.50. 

Tansy, Oil of — This is used principally in the forma- 
tion of liniments. It is a useful application for 
bruises, sprains, muscular rheumatism and chronic 
ulcers. Internally it is sometimes used to relieve flatu- 
lent colic. It is also employed to produce abortion. 



604 MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, half a drachm to a 
drachm ; sheep, hog and dog, one to four drops. Price, 
per ounce, 25 cts. 

Taraxacum — This remedy is taken from the dande- 
lion, and is a good blood purifier, stimulates the liver, 
and is an excellent remedy for jaundice. Price, per 
pound, .$l.o5. 

Tartar Emetic— See Antimony Tartrate. Price, per 
pound, 55 cts. 

Tincture 0?ii Campli., Pareg"oric — This is a preparation 
of camphor and opium, benzoic acid, oil of anise, clari- 
fied honey and diluted alcohol. It is used to relive ab- 
dominal pains, or irritability of the stomach or bowels ; 
also for allaying cough. 

Doses : — Horses and cattle, half ounce to an ounce ; 
sheep, hos; and dog, one to three drachms. Price, per 
pint, 60 cts. 

Tolu, Syrup of — This is principally used for coughs 
colds, sore throat, or any chronic disease of the throat 
and lungs. 

Doses: — Horses and cattle, half ounce to an ounce; 
sheep, hog and dog, two to four drachms. Price, per 
pint, 50 cts. 

Verdig:ris, Copper Subacetate — This is an irritant poison 
and is seldom used internally. Externally it is used as 
a caustic stimii.,;nt, astringent and antiseptic. It is ap- 
plied in the form of a powder, solution or ointment, 
and is made of one part of verdigris to eiiiht or ten of 
lard, vaseline or water. Price, per pound, 50 cts. 

Vitriol, Oil of— See Sulphuric Acid. Price, per pint, 
5 cts. 

Vitriol, White — See Zinc Sulphate. Price, per pound, 
10 cts. 

Whiskey— See Rectified Spirits. 



MEDICINES AND THEIR USES. (505 

Witchhazel, Hamamelis — This is quite a valuable rem- 
edy, for sprains, bruises, wounds, inflammations, con- 
gestions, or injuries from any source, in soothing and 
controlling the inflammation. It also enters into the 
formation of many liniments. It is used also as a 
soothing application for piles. Price, per gallon, 75 cts. 

Wormwood, Oil of— This oil is used in the form, tion 
of various liniments. I'riee, per ounce, 40 cts. 

Zinc, Chloride — This remedy is scarcely ever given in- 
ternally. Externally, it is used as a stimulant, 
astringent, caustic, and for the destruction of parasites, 
and is a valuable remedy in the treatment of canker of 
the foot. Price, per pound, 50 cents. 

Zinc, Oxide — Zinc oxide is mostly used externally, in 
the treatment of skin diseases. It is useful in relieving 
tenderness and itching, and assists in healing excoria- 
tions of the skin, being also frequently mixed with 
vaseline or glycerine, in the form of an ointment. 
Price, per pound, 15 cts. 

Zinc, Sulphate — This is seldom used internally, but 
externally it is used as a stimulant and astringent, to- 
promote the healing of wounds and foul ulcers, and 
when combined with sugar of lead and water, makes 
the famous w^hite lotion, a healing preparation. It i& 
sometimes used in the treatment of diseases of the eyes. 
Price, per pound, 10 cts. 



INDEX. 

HORSE DEPARTMENT. 



PAGK. 

Abscesses 174 

Abscess. Cold 175 

Acltes 117 

Albumin vixla 117 

Amaurosis 13< 

Amputation of Penis 187 

Aneurism 190 

Anasarca 117 

Aniemia 52 

Ankles. Cocked 222 

Apoplexy 236 

Arthritis 281 

Asthma 72 

Atrophy of the Muscles 271 

Azoturia 54 

Barbed Wire, Wounds from 2IM 

Back, Sprained 27.t 

Baths 18 

" Tepid 18 

" Warm 19 

" Hot 19 

" Medicated 19 

Beets 15 

Bladder, Paralysis of 120 

" Inflammation of 127 

" Eversion of 129 

" Stone in the 131 

Bleeding 3J 

" from the nostril n3 

" after Castration 18.1 

Blistering 30 

Blood Spavin -•'•< 

Bloody Urine 119 

Bog Spavin -■- 

Boluses 27 

Bone Spavin -18 

Bots li2 

Brain, Inflammatloa of 144 

(607) 



"608 INDEX. 

FAOI. 

Bran , 14 

Brlght'3 Disease 117 

Bronchitis 58 

Bronchocele 239 

Broken or Bruised Knees 267 

Bruises 172 

" oftheFrog 199 

Burns or Scalds 163 

•C Calk Wounds 201 

Calculus, Cystic 131 

Canker i 193 

Capped Hock 227 

Carpltls 266 

Carrots ..' 15 

Caries of the Teeth 234 

Castration 1S3 

Bleeding After ij-5 

Catarrh, Chronic 246 

" Nasal 56 

Chaff 13 

Chafing by the Harness 154 

Choking 166 

Chronic Roaring 57 

Clap 128 

Cocked Ankles 222 

CofHn Joint Lameness 210 

Colio, Flatulent 49 

" Spasmodic 45 

Cold in the Head 56 

" Abscess 175 

Congestion of the Lungs 70 

" " Liver 99 

" " Skin 147 

Constipation 86 

Contracted Heels 202 

Contused and Incised Wounds 23 

Corn 5 

Corns 191 

Coronltls :.^9 

Cough, Chronic C8 

Cramps 45 

Crib-blters 168 

Curb 2i5 

( ' J s tl tls 1.7 

iD Decay or Carles of the Teeth £31 

Diaphragm, Spasm of 75 

Diarrhoea _.. 89 

Diabetes, Insipidus 116 

Dislocation of the Patella 255 

Disinfection 30 

Distemper or Strangles 41 



ESDEX. 



009 



Drenches 

Dropsy 

of the Scrotum 

Dropsical Swelliiig 

Dysentery 

Dyspepsia 



Elbow Lameness 

Entfrltls 

Ealerltls-Muco 

Epilepsy 

Eplstaxis 

Epizootic 

Erysipelas 

Eversion of the Bl idder. 

" " " RtTtiun.. 

Eyes, Infl mimatiou of... 

Eyelids, Torn 

Eye, Watering 



Facial Paralysis 

Farcy 

Feet, Inflammation of 

Fetlock Joint, Sprain of — 
Firing.... 

Fistulous Wl hers 

Fits. FiiUing 

Flatulent Colic 

Flexor Tendons, Sprain of. 

Foment ill i(i!-!s 

Foods aud F»eding 

Foot, Gravel iu 

" Pumfred 

Foul Sheaih 

Founder 

Frog, Bruises of 



Galls, Saddle or Collar. 

" Wind 

Gastritis 

Glanders 

Glossitis 

Goitre 

Gonorrhce I 

Gorged >>i<>:iinch 

Gravel in Foot 

Grains 

Grass 

Grease Heel 

Gut-lie " 



FAQS. 

.... 28 



. 52 
.121 
.117 
. 91 
.108 

.26-1 
. 82 
,. 84 
.139 
. 53 
. 43 
.161 
.129 
.103 
.133 
.136 
.135 



.153 
. 50 
.163 
.261 
. 31 
.182 
.139 
. 49 
.262 
. 20 
. 11 
..197 
.198 
.125 
.163 
.199 



.154 

.219 
. 93 
. 5) 
.105 
,.•-'39 
,.128 
. 95 
.197 
. 14 
. 16 
.151 
.110 



610 INDEX. 

PAGE. 

H Haemorrhagia Purpura ^ 106 

HaBmaturea 119 

Hfiemorr holds 240 

Harness 17 

Hay 12 

Heaves 76 

Heels, Contracted 202 

Hemiplegia 97 

Hepatitis 101 

Hernia 188 

Hide Bound 158 

Hind Limbs, Paralysis of 102 

HipLameness 244 

Hock, Capped 2.27 

Hydrocele 121 

Hydrophobia 241 

Hysteria 24S 



Icterus 98 

Incised and Contused Wounds 231 

Indigestion 95 

Inflamuiatioa of Bladder 127 

'• Bowels 182 

" Brain 144 

" " Coronet 209 

" Eyes 133 

" Feet 163 

" " Joints £7r-i'81 

" " Kidneys 124 

" Knees 266 

" Liver 101 

" " Lining Membrane of the Abdominal Cavity. .111 

" " Lungs 63 

" " Lymphatics 77 

" " Mammar J' Glands 133 

" " Membrane and Spinal Cord 145 

" Mouth 79 

" " Stomach 92 

•' " Testicles 130 

" " Tongue 105 

" " Udder 132 

Influenza, Epizootic 43 

Injections 25 

Intestinal Obstructions 87 

Introductory 9 

Intussusception 110 

Irregularities of the Teeth 233 

Irritation of the Skin 149 

Jaundice 98 

Joints, Open 277 



INDEX. 611 

PAGE. 

K Knee Sprung 306 

Knees, Inflammation of 206 

" Broken or Bruised 267 

Knuckling 222 

L Lachrymal Duct, Obstructon of 185 

Liampas 81 

Lamlnltis 163 

Lameness, Coffin Joint 210 

" Elbow 205 

Hip 2^14 

, " Shoulder 272 

" StifleJoint 255 

Laryngo Pharyngitis 60 

Leucorrhoea 122 

Lice 157 

Linseed •. 15 

Lips, Paralysis of the 237 

Liver, Congesiion of 99 

" Inflammation of 101 

Lockjaw 141 

Lotions 23 

Lungs, Inflammation of 63 

" Congestion of 70 

Lymphangitis 77 

M Madness 241 

Maize 15 

Mammary Glands, Inflammation o: 132 

Mange 155 

M oon Blindness 138 

Mouth, Inflammation <.f 79 

Muoo-Enteritis 84 

Muscles, Rupture of 245 

" Atrophy of 271 

Mutilations 17 

IM Nails, Pricks from 195 

Nasal Catarrh 56 

" Gleet ai6 

" Polypus 177 

" Tumors 177 

Navicular Disease 210 

Nephritis : 124 

Nettle Rash 180 

Nostrils, Bleeding from the 53 

Wounds About 179 

Nostril, False, Tumor in 177 

O Obstructions, Intestinal 87 

Obstruction of the Lachrymal Duct 135 

Occult Spavin 254 

Odema 221 

Ointments 24 



012 INDEX. 

PAOB. 

Open Joint 277 

Ophthalmia, Periodic 138 

Over-heating 147 

Ozena 246 

P Partial Paralysis 54 

Paralysis 97 

" of the Bladder 120 

" Facial 153 

" of the Hind Limbs 102 

" " Lips 237 

" " NerveofSlght 134 

Parrot Mouth 235 

Patella, Dislocation of 255 

Penis, Amputation of 187 

Peritonitis Ill 

Periodic Ophthalmia 138 

Pharyngeal Polypus 178 

Phrenltis 144 

Phymosis and Paraphyinosls 186 

Piles ' 240 

Plasters 23 

Pleurisy 65 

Pneumonia 63 

PolllOvil 169 

Polypus, Nasal 177 

Potatoes iS 

Poultices 81 

Powders 22 

Pricks from Nails 106 

Prolapsus Ani 108 

Prurlgo-Pruritus 149 

Pumiced Foot 198 

Purpura Hasmorrhagia 106 

Q Quinsy 74 

Qulttor 19d 

H Rabies 241 

Rectum, Eversion of lOft 

Retention of Urine 126 

Rheumatism 273 

Rickets 282 

Ringworm 181 

Ringbone 267 

Roaring, Chronic 57 

Rupture 188 

" of Muscles 845 

S Saddle or Collar Galls 154 

Salivation 104 

Sand Cracks 808 

Scalds and Burns 168 

Scratches 151 



INDEX. 

Scrotum, Dropsy of page. 

Seedy Toe ^^^ 

Sesamoldltls '90 

Sheath, Foul 261 

Shoeing ' ' ' 125 

Shoulder Lameness ^ 

Slip 272 

Shoulders, Sore ^^ 

Side-bones 154 

Simple Ophthalmia. 224 

Sltfast 133 

Skin, Congestion of ^^^ 

" Irritation of... ^^"^ 

Slings '■' 149 

Slobbers 31 

Sore Shins '^ 

" Throat ^^"^ 

Spasm of the Diaphragm. ^ 

Spavin, Bone "^ 

Bog ....'. ~ 248 

Blood 252 

" Occult ".".'.'..■.'. 263 

Spinal Meningitis. ... 254 

Splint ' ' 145 

Sprained Back 215 

Sprain of the Fetlock Joint. ^^^ 

'• " Flexor Tendons ^^' 

^ Suspensory Ligaments.... ^ff 

Sprung Kn«e 260 

Stabling 206 

Stifle-joint Lameness '^ 

Stings of Bees, Wasps and Hornets. "^ ' 

Stomach, Gorged 244 

" Inflammation of ^^ 

" Staggers ^2 

Stomatitis 9b 

Stone In the Bladder ." '^^ 

Strangles or Distemper. '^' 

Straw 41 

Stringhalt ....T.!!...! ^^ 

Stricture of the Urethra. ^^ 

Stump-suckera 123 

Sunstroke ^^ 

Superpurgatlon ^^'^ 

Suppositories 85 

Surfeit '.'', 27 

Swelled Gums. ..!.!...]... ]...]", 180 

Legs, Stooklnt ^^ 

Swelling, DropslcsU 221 

Swlnney 117 

SynoYMB........'. 269-271 

281 



613 



014 INDEX, 

PAGE. 

T Teeth 283-292 

" Irregularities of 233 

" Wolf or Supernumerary 236 

Testicles, Inflammatioa of .130 

Tetanus Ml 

Thorough Pin 228 

Thrush 192 

Thumps 75 

Toe, Seedy 190 

Tongue, Inflamiuaiion of 105 

" Injuries 80 

Toothache 234 

Torn Eyelids 130 

Tumors 230 

" Nasal 177 

" In False NostrH .177 

" " theThroat 178 

U Udder, Inflammation of 132 

Urethra, Stricture of 123 

Urine, Bioody 119 

Urine, Retention of 126 

V Vapors.. 24 

W Warts 137 

Water 10 

Watering Eye 135 

Wheat and Rye 14 

Whites 120 

Wind-galls 219 

Wind-puffs 219 

Wind-suckers 168 

Withers, Fistulous '.182 

Wolf Teeth 236 

Worms 114 

Wounds from Barbed Wire 212 

Calk 201 

" Incised and Contused 231 

" attheJoints 277 

" About the Nostrils 179 



Yellows. 



CATTLE DEPARTMENT. 



Affections of the Second Stomach 835 

Albuminuria 308 

Apoplexy, Splenic 356 

Aptha „ 205 



INDEX. 615 

PACK 

B Blackleg -65 

Bladder, Evers-Ion of 3)2 

" Inflammation of ...3il 

Bloating 304 

Bloody Urine 313 

Bowels, Inflammation of 324 

Brain, Inflammation of 314 

Bright's Disease 308 

Buckeyes, Fits'from Eating 331 

C Calves, White Scours in 303 

Cancerous Ulcers 311 

Catarrh or Cold 31(5 

Choking 318 

Chronic Indigestion 321 

Clap 315 

Colic 323 

Conjunctivitis 326 

Contagious Pleuro-Pneumonia 307 

Cow-pox 332 

Cystitis 341 

D De-horning 369 

Diarrhoea 298 

Dislocation of the Patella or Stifle 329 

Dropsy of the Uterus or Woinb 345 

Dysentery, Aculo 300 

E Enteritis 324 

Epizootic Aptha 309 

Eversiou of Vagina 344 

Eyes, Inflammation of 326 

F Pardel-bound 333 

First Stomach. Impaction of 336 

Fits from Ealing- Buckeyes 331 

Foot and Moutli Disease 309 

G Glossitis 295 

Gonoirhcca 315 

Grubs Under the Skin 358 

Gut-tie 357 

H Hasniatiirea 313 

Hepatitis 327 

Hide-bound 335 

Hoven 304 

I Impaction of the Omasum 333 

" " Rumen 836 

Indigestion, Chronic 821 



616 INDEX. 

PAGB. 

Inflammation of the Bladder 341 

" " " Bowels 324 

" " " Brain 314 

" " " Eyes 326 

" " " Kidneys 308 

•• " •' Liver 327 

» " " Lungs 339 

" " " Tongue 295 

•' " " Udder 358 

Intestines, Strangulation of 357 

J Jaundice 330 

K Kidneys, Inflammation of 308 

L Leucorrhoea 346 

Lice 359 

Liver, Inflammation of 327 

Lockjaw 363 

Lump-jaw 311 

Lnngs, Inflammation of 339 

M MammitiB 353 

Mouth, Sore 295 

P Patella, Dislocation of 329 

Phrenitis 814 

Pleurisy 347 

Pleura-Pneumonia, Contagious 307 

Pneumonia 839 

Q Quarter-ill 365 

R Rheumatism 367 

Ringworm 360 

Rumen, Impaction of 336 

3 Second Stomach, Affections of 325 

Skin, Grubs Under 358 

Sore Mouth 295 

" Teats 349 

Splenic Apoplexy - 356 

Stifle-joint, Dislocation of 339 

Strangulation of the Intestines 357 

T Teats, Injuries and Obstructions in 350 

" Sore 849 

Tetanus or Lockjaw 863 

• Tongue, Inflammation of 806 

Tongue, Ulcerated 297 

Tympanitis 304 

U Udder, Inflammation of 383 

Ulcerated Tongue 897 

Ulo«x«, CanoOTOuB 8U 

Urine, Bloo«jr 313 



INDEX. 617 

PAGB. 

Vagina, Everslon of 344 

Warbles 358 

Warts 361 

White Scours in Calves 303 

Whites 346 

Womb, Dropsy of 345 

Worms 362 



OBSTETRICAL DEPARTMENT. 



Abdominal and Breast Presentation 45« 

Abortion 374 

AciU'S or Abdominal Dropsy 460 

Afterbirth, Retention of 399 

After-pains 395 

Anterior l^esentation 417 

Apoplexy, Parturient 388 

Barren Horses and Cattle 371 

Bleeding from the Navel 408 

Brain, Water on 461 

Breast and Abdominal Presentation 452 

Care and Peeding of Pregnant Animals 385 

Colta, Diarrhoea In 418 

Constipation Shortly After Birth 411 

Croup and Thigh Presentation 445 

Deviation of Head Upward and Backward 433 

Diarrhoea in Colts 413 

Double-headed Monstrosity 458 

Downward Deviation of the Head 427 

Dropsy, Abdominal 460 

Everaion of the Womb 392 

Feeding and Care of Pregnant Animals 385 

Flooding 398 

Foetus, Twin, In Different Presentations 458 

" Presentation and Position of 416 

Forellmbs Completely Retained 424 

" Flexed at the Knees 421 

PoroUmb Crossed Over the Neck 418 

Head, Downward Deviation of 427 

" Deviation of, Upward and Backward 483 

*' Lateral Deviation of, to the Righ t or Left 429 

Hernia of the Uterus or Womb 401 

Hind-leg Deviation, Anterior Presentation 434 

Hind-legs, Deviation of. Into Genital Canal, Anterior Part of 

the Body Presenting 4S6 

Hock Presentation 442 

Hydrocephalus, Water on the Brain 450 



618 INDEX. 

PAGE. 

I Inflammation of the Peritoneum 406 

'• " Womb 406 

L Labor Pains, Premature 397 

Lateral Deviation of the Head to the Right or Left 429 

Loin and Shoulder Presentation 449 

M Metro-Peritonitis 406 

Milk Fever 388 

Monstrosity, Double-headed 458 

N Navel, Bleeding from the 408 

Rupture of 410 

" Urine Passing from the 409 

Normal 'Parturition, N ecessary Aid in 377 

O Odema 392 

P Parturition, Its SyQiptoms, etc 882 

" Necessary Aid in 377 

Parturient Apoplexy, Milk Fever! 388 

Perineum, Rupture of 405 

Persistence of the Urachus 409 

Post-labor Pains ..395 

Post-par tum Hemorrhage 398 

Posterior Presentation 438 

Pregnancy, Swelling in 392 

Pregnant Animals, Care and Feeding of 385 

Premature Labor Pains 397 

Presentation and Postion of the F(x;tus 416 

R Retention of the Meconium 411 

" " " Placenta 399 

Rupture of the Navel 410 

" " " Perineum 405 

S Shoulder and Loin Presentation 449 

Sterility— Barrenness 371 

Swelling in Pregnancy 392 

X Thigh and Croup Presentation .445 

Transverse Presentatlnn 448 

Twin Foetus in Different Prfsentations 456 

U UmWlical Hemorrhage '. 408 

" Hernia 410 

Urine Passing from the Navel 409 

W Water on the Brain 4.59 

Womb, E version of 392 

" Hernia of 401 

" luflammatlon of 4N 



INDEX. 

SHEEP DEPARTMENT. 



619 



Abortion 

After-pains in the Ev 
Aptha 



PAGE. 

....516 
.. .513 
4S4 



B Black-leg ^^^ 

Bloating or Iloven *^^ 

Braxy 

C Castration ^]^ 

Charbon *^^ 

Clap or Gonorrha; I ^^ 

Cold or Catarrh *^ 

Concretions in the Stomach 4"^ 

Constipation ^^^ 

•' In Lambs ^** 

Congestion of the Liver ^"^^ 

Costiveness *^^ 

D Diarrhoea or Scours in Lambs 469 

" " White Scours in Lambs 504 

477 

Distemper ^" 

Docking or Ctttting OH the Tail 5^ 

Dysentery '^'^ 

477 



Epizootic 

Ewe, Lambing in "^^ 



Flukes in the Liver, 
Foot Lameness 



.499 



Foul in. 



.480 
.486 



and Mouth Disease •l^-* 



" Rot.. 
Fractures . 



.4S7 
.503 



G Garget ^'^ 

Gonorrhoea or Clap.... 509 



Gravel in Foot . 



.486 



H Hoof Rot. 



Hoose in Lambs. 



.487 
.506 



Hoven or Bloating ■*'! 



Husk . 



.5C6 



Inflammation of the Liver 476 

" " Lungs 466 

" " Udder &15 

influenza 4^^^ 



Intestinal Worms. 



.496 



Inversion of the Womb ^^4 

Itoh or Mange **0 



620 INDEX. 

PAQK. 

L Lambing In the Ewe 511 

Eiiambs, Constipation in 504 

Lice 4«5 

Liver, Congestion of 475 

" Inflammation of 476 

Liver-rot 499 

Lockjaw 502 

Lung Fever 466 

" Worms 506 

Lungs, Inflammation of 466 

M Maggots 493 

Mange or Itcli 490 

Milk Fever 517 

Murrain 480 

P Pale Disease 508 

Pneumonia 466 

Parturient Apoplexy 513 

" Fever 517 

Puerperal Fever 517 

Q Quarter-Ill 480 

S Sand in Urine 508 

Scab 490 

Scours in Lambs, or Diarrhcea 469 

Sediment in the Urine 508 

Sheep-tick 494 

Slipping of Lambs 516 

Small-pox 481 

Sore Feet 486 

Splenic Apoplexy 472 

Stomach, Foreign Substances in 474 

Sti-etches 468 

T Tail, Cutting Off the 530 

Tape-worm 466 

Tick 494 

U Udder, Inflammation of 513 

Uriue, Sand in 508 

Urine, Sediment in 508 

W "White Scours in Lambs 504 

Womb, Inversion of B14 



ESTDEX. 

HOG DEPARTMENT. 



621 



A Ague Cake. 
Anthrax.... 
Apoplexy . . 



PACK. 

. ... Si40 
^13 

.... 534 

.=sn6 



O Catarrh or Snuffles 

Malignant Epizootic ^'■^^ 

coo 

Charbon ^''"^ 

.VI 

Cholera 

Constipation _"_ 

Contagious Pneumo-Enterltls ^~" 

Coughs and Colds ^'^'^ 

D Delivery and Care of Young— Pigging 550 

DiarrhcEa or Scours ^ '^ 

541 



Diphtheria 

E Epilepsy or Staggers. 



.535 



521 



H Hog Cholera 

I Itch— Scab-Mange ^^^ 

K Kidney Worms ^^^ 

L Lard Worms ^^® 

Lice "'' 

M Malignant Epizootic Catarrh ^^^ 

Mange -Itch or Scab ^'^^ 

Measles "** 



P Pigging 

Piles ^^^ 



550 
545 

Pneumo-Enteritis Com aglous ^25 

.538 



Q Quinsy 

S Scab— Itch or Mange ^^ 

Scours or Diarrhoea '"'^^ 

Snuffles or Catarrh ^^^ 

Spleen Enlargement ^^^ 

Splenitis ^*^ 

Staggers or Epilepsy ^^ 

Strangles ^^ 

T Tonsilitls ^3^ 

Trichina— Trichinosis ^^ 

W Worms, Kidney or Lard "^ 



622 INDEX. 

DOG DEPARTMENT. 



PAGE. 

B Belly- Ache 558 

Bowels. Inflammation of .' 559 

C Canker of the Ear 565 

Catarrh 561 

Chorea 568 

Clap or Gocorrhos.i 572 

('.olds 561 

Colic 558 

Con.stipation 557 

Costivene.'jS 557 

Cough '. 561 

D Diarrhosa and Dysentery 555 

DL-jtemiJ^-r 553 

E Ear, Canker of the 565 

Epilepsy 560 

Erythema 565 

Eyes, Intlammatiou of 566 

F Fits 560 

Fleas 575 

Fractures 568 

G Goitre 561 

Gonorrhosa, Clap 572 

H Hydrophobia 563 

I Inflammation of the Bowels 559 

" " Eyes 566 

" " " Lungs ' 563 

" " " Skin 565 

L Lice 576 

Lung Fever 562 

IVl Madness .563 

Mange 563 

Red 565 

P Parturition 573 

Pneumonia 562 

Pupping 573 

R Rabies 563 

S Skin, Inflammation of 565 

T Tumors About the Eyes 567 

W Warts About the Eyes 567 

Worms In the Intestines 569 

" " Kidneys 572 

Wounds and Fractures 568 



